exert some leverage

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "exert some leverage" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used in contexts where one party is trying to influence or gain an advantage over another party, often in negotiations or decision-making situations. Example: "In order to secure a better deal, we need to exert some leverage during the negotiations."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

2 human-written examples

Because China accounts for less than 2% of Norway's exports, the economic consequences seem eminently manageable.Indeed, Norway may now be tempted to exert some leverage of its own.

The Economist

He is also sympathetic to Mr Brown's desire to establish his credentials as the next prime minister by reaching out beyond the mostly financial issues with which he is associated in the mind of the electorate.Mr Blair cannot be blamed for seeing in this an opportunity to exert some leverage.

The Economist

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

54 human-written examples

But 60 million mortgages with fatal defects in title could give aggrieved homeowners and securities holders the crowbar they need to exert some serious leverage on Congress -- serious enough perhaps even to pry the legislature loose from the powerful banking lobbies that now hold it in thrall.

Huffington Post

The EU also has considerable leverage with Bangkok but, like Washington, has failed so far to exert behaviour-changing pressure.

The Guardian

We have to exert some control.

TechCrunch

But users can exert some control over their shares.

TechCrunch

It's all part of the "financialisation" of society whereby the collective cake shrinks – and the super rich claim an ever larger slice – forcing the rest of us to try to exert leverage over some corner.

The Guardian - Money

Some powerful unions, which expect to exert more leverage in the new Congress, remain deeply opposed to the temporary worker program in the Senate bill.

The New York Times

Few Americans understand how hard it is for the federal government to exert any leverage on educational change.

The New York Times

Those now in talks can exert more leverage than suitors could before the economy's near-death experience.

The New York Times - Sports

Perhaps Britain could eventually exert greater leverage on China, and perhaps, somewhere down the line, it could help peel China away from its tight relationship with Vladimir Putin's Russia on some global issues before the security council.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "exert some leverage", ensure that the context clearly indicates what form of influence is being applied and the intended outcome. For instance, specify whether it's economic, political, or social leverage.

Common error

Avoid using "exert some leverage" when the actual influence is minimal or non-existent. Ensure the context reflects a genuine capacity to affect the situation.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "exert some leverage" functions as a verb phrase followed by a noun phrase. According to Ludwig AI, it describes the action of applying influence or pressure to achieve a specific outcome. Examples in Ludwig show it used in contexts of negotiation or political maneuvering.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Formal & Business

20%

Science

20%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "exert some leverage" is a grammatically correct expression used to describe the application of influence or pressure. According to Ludwig AI, it is most commonly found in news and media contexts, with a neutral to professional register. While the phrase is valid, it is relatively rare in overall usage. When writing, ensure that the context reflects a genuine capacity to affect the situation, and consider alternatives like "exercise some influence" or "apply some pressure" depending on the specific nuance you wish to convey.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

Apply some pressure

Focuses on the act of applying force or influence directly.

Exercise some influence

Emphasizes the use of one's authority or sway.

Wield some power

Highlights the possession and use of authority or control.

Exert some control

Focuses on the act of maintaining authority.

Bring some influence to bear

A more formal way to express applying influence.

Put some weight behind

Emphasizes support and influence.

Bring some force to bear

Highlights direct action and influence.

Use one's weight

Focuses on using one's importance to influence.

Bring pressure to bear

Highlights direct exertion of influence on a subject.

Apply one's sway

To make an influence based on a personal request.

FAQs

How can I use "exert some leverage" in a sentence?

You can use "exert some leverage" to describe attempts to influence a situation or decision. For example, "The company tried to exert some leverage during the negotiations to secure a better deal."

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

"Exert some leverage" implies using a strategic advantage to influence, whereas "apply some pressure" suggests a more direct and forceful approach.

What can I say instead of "exert some leverage"?

You can use alternatives like "exercise some influence", "apply some pressure", or "wield some power" depending on the context.

In what situations is it appropriate to use "exert some leverage"?

It is appropriate to use "exert some leverage" in situations where there is an attempt to influence a decision or outcome, often in negotiations, political maneuvering, or business dealings.