exert force

USAGE SUMMARY

'exert force' is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
It means to apply pressure or to use one's strength or influence in order to make something happen. For example, "The union threatened to exert force and go on strike if their demands were not met."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

57 human-written examples

Wind load can exert force on the telescope.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Optimal power reflects how quickly you can exert force to produce the desired movement.

Harvard University

Each could exert force in the world for good or ill and required individual propitiation.

Encyclopedia Britannica

In each of these examples, cells both exert force on their surroundings and simultaneously enzymatically remodel the extracellular matrix (ECM).

Stanford University

In fact, their complaint is that, on the contrary, no one was willing to exert force on their behalf.

The New York Times - Books

"It will exert force on the other countries, not least Slovakia and Finland, when Germany can move ahead without obstacles".

The New York Times

A worker has to exert force using both hand and leg to operate farm tools and equipment.

International Journal of Industrial Ergonomics

During activity, the body's limbs experience significant anthropometrical changes as muscles and tendons exert force for motion and stability.

Procedia Engineering

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

3 human-written examples

The immersed boundaries exert forces locally on the fluid.

Journal of Computational Physics

The actuators connecting the rings can be activated simultaneously to maximize the force they exert, or separately to exert forces in different directions.

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

Those properties include the masses of all known particles and how they interact, or exert forces on one another.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing physical actions, use "exert force" to emphasize the application of strength or energy. For instance, "The athlete must exert force to lift the heavy weight."

Common error

Avoid using "exercise force" when you mean to describe applying physical strength. "Exercise" in this context usually refers to practicing or utilizing a skill or right, while "exert" specifically means to apply effort or energy.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "exert force" functions as a verb phrase where "exert" is a transitive verb and "force" is its direct object. It typically describes the action of applying physical or abstract pressure. Ludwig provides numerous examples of this usage in diverse contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

40%

News & Media

30%

Academia

20%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

3%

Wiki

3%

Formal & Business

4%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "exert force" is a grammatically sound and frequently used expression across diverse fields. As Ludwig AI confirms, it accurately describes the action of applying energy, pressure, or influence. Its versatility makes it suitable for academic, scientific, and general contexts. While alternatives exist, such as "apply pressure" or "wield influence", the best choice depends on the specific nuances you wish to convey. Be mindful of potential confusion with similar phrases like "exercise force", which carries a different connotation.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

bring influence to bear

Highlights the application of influence in a specific situation, emphasizing its impact.

apply pressure

Focuses on the application of pressure, which is a more general term for exerting influence.

wield influence

Highlights the use of influence as the means of applying force, often in a social or political context.

apply leverage

Emphasizes the use of leverage to achieve a desired outcome, suggesting a strategic application of force.

bring to bear

Implies bringing something into action or play, emphasizing the deployment of resources or capabilities.

exercise authority

Focuses on the use of official or recognized power to direct or control.

put to work

Highlights the action of putting something to use, suggesting the active application of capabilities.

bring into play

Emphasizes the introduction of a factor or element that has an effect on a situation.

make use of

Focuses on the utilization of something, implying a practical application of resources.

have an impact

Focuses on the effect or influence something has, rather than the direct application of force.

FAQs

How can I use "exert force" in a sentence?

You can use "exert force" to describe the application of physical strength, influence, or pressure. For example, "Muscles "exert force" to move bones" or "The government can "exert force" through policy changes".

What are some alternatives to "exert force"?

Depending on the context, you could use phrases like "apply pressure", "wield influence", or "apply leverage" as alternatives to "exert force".

Is it correct to say "exercise force" instead of "exert force"?

While "exercise" can mean to make use of, in the context of applying physical strength or pressure, "exert force" is more appropriate. "Exercise force" might imply practicing or utilizing a right or power.

What's the difference between "exert force" and "apply pressure"?

"Exert force" often implies a more direct and active application of strength or energy, whereas "apply pressure" can refer to a more subtle or indirect form of influence. The best choice depends on the specific context.