enviable position

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase 'enviable position' is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to refer to a desirable state or situation that someone else has that you may wish to have. For example: "John's promotion to manager puts him in an enviable position. I wish I were in his shoes."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

ReprintsThis enviable position is increasingly under attack.

The Economist

PAGE 34 An Enviable Position?

The New York Times

It is not an enviable position.

The Guardian

Intuit is in an enviable position.

The New York Times - Tech

From a marketing perspective, Argentina has achieved an enviable position.

The New York Times - Food

"I'm in this scary and enviable position," Friedman said.

The New Yorker

Still, over all, Texas remains in an enviable position.

The New York Times

JAPAN STEEL WORKS is in an enviable position.

The Economist

It is hardly an enviable position in an election year.

The Economist

"John Edwards is in a very enviable position.

The New York Times

That puts Mr. Molinaro in an enviable position.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "enviable position" to describe situations where someone or something holds a significant advantage or is in a highly desirable state compared to others. Ensure the context clearly indicates why the position is considered enviable.

Common error

Avoid confusing "enviable position" with implying that the person in that position is envious. "Enviable" means worthy of envy, not feeling envy. Ensure your writing reflects this distinction.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "enviable position" functions primarily as a noun phrase modified by the adjective "enviable". It signifies a state or situation that is highly desirable and likely to be envied by others. Ludwig AI confirms its correct and frequent usage in various contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

70%

Formal & Business

15%

Science

5%

Less common in

Academia

5%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "enviable position" correctly describes a desirable or advantageous situation and is widely used across various domains. As Ludwig AI explains, it functions as a noun phrase with an adjective modifier, serving to highlight the positive aspects of a particular situation. While suitable for neutral to professional contexts, it's crucial to avoid confusing "enviable" with "envious". Synonyms like "advantageous situation" can be used for variety. With its frequent presence in reputable sources like The New York Times and The Economist, mastering the use of "enviable position" will enhance one's writing precision and clarity.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

advantageous situation

Focuses on the benefits and opportunities afforded by the situation.

favorable circumstance

Highlights the positive aspects of the situation.

desirable state of affairs

Emphasizes the attractiveness and desirability of the situation.

fortunate standing

Indicates a lucky or favorable position in relation to others.

privileged spot

Suggests access to advantages and opportunities not available to everyone.

commanding heights

Implies a position of control and influence.

top of the heap

Indicates being the best or most successful in a particular field.

catbird seat

Refers to a position of superior advantage.

prime location

Focuses on the physical or strategic advantages of a specific place or position.

good graces

Emphasizes being held in high regard or favor by someone important.

FAQs

How can I use "enviable position" in a sentence?

You can use "enviable position" to describe a situation or status that is highly desirable. For example, "After years of hard work, she finally attained the "enviable position" of CEO".

What are some synonyms for "enviable position"?

Alternatives to "enviable position" include "advantageous situation", "favorable circumstance", or "desirable state of affairs" depending on the nuance you want to convey.

Is it correct to say someone is in an "envious position"?

No, it is incorrect. The correct phrase is "enviable position". "Envious" describes someone feeling envy, while "enviable" describes something worthy of being envied.

What's the difference between "enviable position" and "privileged position"?

While both phrases describe a desirable state, "privileged position" emphasizes advantages due to status or special access, whereas "enviable position" simply indicates a desirable or advantageous situation that others might wish for.