drum up support

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "drum up support" is correct and usable in written English.
It is typically used when trying to generate interest, enthusiasm, or backing for a cause, project, or initiative. Example: "The organization is working hard to drum up support for their new environmental campaign."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

His supporters hit the chat rooms to drum up support.

Forbes

Mass culture helped drum up support for the imperial project.

The New Yorker

But it is hard to drum up support.

The Guardian

It talks of dispatching a "battle-bus" to drum up support in other inner-city areas.

The Economist

Not nearly, but a small group is trying to drum up support against them.

The New York Times

He said he planned to start a large social networking campaign to drum up support.

The New York Times

Azerbaijan's president, Ilham Aliev, has been sabre-rattling to drum up support.

The Economist

He is headed to Europe and Africa to drum up support among allies and Sudan's neighbors.

The New York Times

Sir Leon has been touring the world to drum up support for a new round.

The Economist

Riding up from Virginia, McCausland made a stop in Hagerstown, in Maryland, to drum up support.

The New York Times

Ms. Povich turned to her office assistant, trying to drum up support.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "drum up support", consider the specific action you are taking to generate that support. Be descriptive in your writing by mentioning tactics like social media campaigns, public appearances, or direct appeals to specific groups.

Common error

While "drum up support" is common, it can sound informal. In formal writing, consider alternatives like "garner support" or "solicit endorsements" to maintain a professional tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "drum up support" functions as a verb phrase indicating the action of actively trying to gain support for something. Ludwig AI confirms this is correct and usable in written English. Examples show it used across diverse scenarios.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Science

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "drum up support" is a common and generally accepted idiom used to describe efforts to actively gain backing for a cause or initiative. Ludwig AI validates that the phrase is grammatically correct and commonly used. While very frequent in news and media, it's important to consider the context and choose more formal alternatives like "garner support" or "solicit endorsements" when appropriate. Remember to be specific when describing how you are trying to "drum up support", and avoid overusing the phrase in formal writing to maintain a professional tone.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

rally support

Focuses on gathering existing supporters, implying a more active and engaged effort than simply generating interest.

generate support

Emphasizes the creation of support where it may not have previously existed, suggesting a broader appeal.

gather backing

Implies collecting endorsements or approvals, often from influential figures or organizations.

cultivate support

Suggests a more gradual and deliberate effort to foster support over time.

solicit support

Indicates a direct request for assistance or endorsement, often in a formal setting.

mobilize support

Emphasizes the act of organizing and activating existing supporters for a specific purpose.

foster support

Implies nurturing and encouraging support, often through education or outreach.

promote support

Highlights the act of advocating for support, often through public relations or marketing.

seek endorsement

Focuses specifically on obtaining formal approval or backing from a recognized authority.

win favor

Suggests gaining approval or positive regard, often to obtain support.

FAQs

What does "drum up support" mean?

The phrase "drum up support" means to try to gain support, interest, or enthusiasm for something.

How can I use "drum up support" in a sentence?

You can use "drum up support" to describe efforts to gain backing for a cause, project, or initiative. For example: "The campaign is working hard to "rally support" for the new policy."

What are some alternatives to "drum up support"?

Alternatives to "drum up support" include "generate support", "gather backing", or "cultivate support", depending on the context.

Is "drum up support" formal or informal?

"Drum up support" is generally considered an informal phrase. In more formal contexts, consider using alternatives like "solicit support" or "seek endorsement".