established a firm

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "established a firm" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when referring to the act of founding or setting up a business or organization. Example: "After years of planning, she finally established a firm that specializes in environmental consulting."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

43 human-written examples

No one's established a firm foothold.

The New York Times - Arts

(It was later that Mr. Miller established a firm, Miller, Kelly Architects of San Francisco).

The New York Times - Tech

And yet that music has established a firm foothold in one area: the amateur chorus.

The New York Times

So far, neither major party has established a firm hold on that swing group.

The New York Times

He established a firm legal and dynastic base for the ʿAbbāsids.

Encyclopedia Britannica

The Yankees have not established a firm timetable for Hughes's return.

The New York Times - Sports

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

17 human-written examples

In the following weeks, however, his security forces re-established a firm grip on Tripoli and gradually recaptured most of the other towns as well, leaving Zintan and Misurata as the main western centers of resistance.

The New York Times

Those residencies establish a firm foundation in a busy schedule of international touring.

The New York Times - Arts

Others were trying to develop a style to establish a firm footing in a newly mechanized, unfamiliar world.

The New York Times - Arts

But the Obama administration has yet to establish a firm trade policy, as it is still reviewing its options.

The New York Times

The Nets may be a long way from establishing a firm identity, but it is coming into focus.

The New York Times - Sports

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "established a firm", ensure that the context clearly indicates what type of organization or company was created. Provide details to avoid ambiguity.

Common error

While "established a firm" is appropriate in many contexts, avoid using it in overly casual settings. Phrases like "started a business" or "set up shop" might be more suitable in informal conversations.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "established a firm" functions as a verb phrase, with "established" acting as the main verb and "a firm" serving as the direct object. According to Ludwig, the phrase is grammatically correct and usable in written English.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

42%

Encyclopedias

21%

Science

17%

Less common in

Wiki

8%

Formal & Business

4%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "established a firm" is a grammatically sound and commonly used expression that describes the act of creating a business or organization. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's appropriate for various contexts, particularly in news, encyclopedias, and scientific domains. While not overly formal, it’s best suited for professional or neutral settings, and writers should provide context to clarify the nature of the "firm" being established. Alternatives like "founded a company" or "started a business" may offer more casual options. The phrase effectively communicates the initiation of a stable, enduring entity.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

founded a company

Replaces "established" with "founded" and "firm" with "company", creating a more common and direct alternative.

started a business

Uses more informal language to convey the act of beginning a commercial enterprise.

set up an enterprise

Replaces "established" with "set up" and "firm" with "enterprise", offering a slightly more formal tone.

formed an organization

Focuses on the creation of a structured group with a specific purpose.

created a foundation

Substitutes "firm" with "foundation", implying the establishment of a base or organization.

organized a business

Stresses the structured arrangement and management of the commercial activity.

launched a venture

Emphasizes the beginning of a new project or undertaking, using the word "venture".

developed a company

Highlights the process of growth and evolution in establishing the entity.

pioneered an institution

Suggests initiating a significant and enduring establishment.

initiated a practice

Implies the commencement of a regular method or custom.

FAQs

What does "established a firm" mean?

The phrase "established a firm" means to create or set up a business, organization, or other structured entity. It implies the act of founding something with a solid and lasting foundation.

What can I say instead of "established a firm"?

You can use alternatives like "founded a company", "started a business", or "set up an enterprise" depending on the context.

Is "established a firm" formal or informal?

"Established a firm" is generally considered a neutral to slightly formal phrase. It is suitable for business, academic, and journalistic contexts, but may sound overly formal in casual conversation.

How to use "established a firm" in a sentence?

Example sentences using "established a firm" include: "In 1947, he established a firm to import little-known European brands." or "With a legendary nudge, Messrs Page and Brin established a firm by that name."