exert muscle

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "exert muscle" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing physical strength, effort, or influence in various contexts, such as fitness or negotiation. Example: "To lift heavier weights, you need to exert muscle and push your limits."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

1 human-written examples

Meanwhile, Islamic conservatives, including forces within the powerful Revolutionary Guard, reclaimed influence following the widespread crackdowns on reformists and found they could even exert muscle over Khamenei.

The Guardian

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

58 human-written examples

This is a chance for Honduras to launch it long and try exert their muscle in the opposition box.

The Guardian - Sport

To avoid an escalation, President Trump needs to exert diplomatic muscle to help end the Syrian war as well as the Assad regime's illicit use of chemical weaponry.

The New Yorker

It was imperative for participants to exert maximum muscle strength in the shortest possible time for each movement [ 29– 31].

BioMed Research International

These results suggest that in our model, the inflammation may not yet have reached a chronic state, such as in the asthmatic airways in which TGF-β1 is known to exert smooth muscle hyperplasia [ 28].

BMC Gastroenterology

Muscle growth happens when you exert your muscles so that the tiny fibers get broken down, giving them the chance to come back bigger and stronger.

WikiHow

But it is the financial sector that is exerting its muscle in Midtown and downtown.

The New York Times

Exercise affects bone strength in two ways: in response to the pressure of gravitational forces like those experienced when walking, running or jumping, and in reaction to the stress exerted by muscle contraction.

The New York Times

Neither side alluded to the protracted talks that ended only after the union began exerting political muscle to force a settlement.

Science Magazine

Selected B16 melanoma cells transferred to serum containing growth media (GM) resume normal behavior, including melanin secretion, further confirming that the inhibitory effects exerted by muscle cells upon B16 cells is completely reversible.

Plosone

TGF-beta1 has been shown to induce autophagy in certain cells but whether and how this action is exerted in muscle and whether this activity relates to TGF-beta1 control of muscle cell differentiation remains unknown.

Cell Death and Differentiation

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing physical activity or exertion, use "exert muscle" to emphasize the direct application of muscular force. For metaphorical uses, consider alternatives like "exert influence" for clarity.

Common error

Avoid using "exert muscle" too frequently in non-physical contexts. Overuse can make your writing sound repetitive or unnatural. Instead, diversify your vocabulary with synonyms like "apply influence" or "exercise power".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "exert muscle" functions as a verb phrase where "exert" is a transitive verb and "muscle" is its direct object. According to Ludwig AI, it is usable in written English. The phrase describes the application of physical or metaphorical force.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

30%

Science

30%

Wiki

20%

Less common in

Formal & Business

10%

Encyclopedias

5%

Reference

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "exert muscle" signifies the application of physical strength, effort, or influence. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and usability in various contexts. While examples are not very frequent, the phrase appears in diverse sources like news media, scientific publications, and wikis. Remember to consider context when using "exert muscle", choosing more specific alternatives like "exert influence" when describing non-physical scenarios for greater precision. The related phrases offer a range of options for expressing similar concepts with nuances of meaning.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

apply force

Focuses on the application of physical strength or power.

use strength

Highlights the utilization of physical power.

wield power

Emphasizes the control and application of influence or authority.

apply pressure

Suggests the use of influence to achieve a desired outcome.

exercise influence

Focuses on the application of persuasive or authoritative power.

flex muscles

Implies a display of power or capability, often in a competitive context.

exert influence

Highlights the application of persuasive or authoritative power.

bring to bear

Suggests focusing resources or capabilities on a specific goal.

put forth effort

Highlights the application of energy and work towards a goal.

use leverage

Focuses on using a strategic advantage to achieve a desired outcome.

FAQs

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

You can use "exert muscle" when referring to physical effort, such as "To lift that weight, you need to "exert muscle" and focus on your form".

What's a more formal alternative to "exert muscle"?

In more formal contexts, consider using phrases like "apply force" or "exercise strength". These alternatives maintain a professional tone while conveying a similar meaning.

Is it appropriate to use "exert muscle" when talking about political influence?

While "exert muscle" can be used metaphorically, it's generally better to use more precise language like "exert influence" or "wield power" when discussing political or social dynamics.

What's the difference between "exert muscle" and "flex muscles"?

"Exert muscle" refers to the active application of muscular force, while "flex muscles" often implies a display of strength or capability, sometimes without necessarily applying it in a functional way.