exert some sense

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "exert some sense" is not commonly used in written English and may sound awkward.
It could be used in contexts where you want to suggest applying or demonstrating a certain level of understanding or judgment. Example: "In this situation, we need to exert some sense to make the right decision."

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

1 human-written examples

"Women have a long tradition of using their bodies to exert some sense of control over their situation," said Ms. Davis.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

58 human-written examples

A sense of self-efficacy has to do with the perception of being able to exert some control over a situation, even in the face of adversity.

Advances in Health Sciences Education

The party should be able to exert some political power.

The New York Times

Why didn't he exert some control over his cast?

The New York Times

Nobody seriously doubts that movies exert some influence.

The New York Times

We have to exert some control.

TechCrunch

But users can exert some control over their shares.

TechCrunch

You have to really exert some force to get the plug free.

TechCrunch

As the planets orbit around their sun, they'll exert some gravitational force on the star.

Vice

If you can't make someone forget, exert some influence over what they remember.

Huffington Post

Moore, who had been untroubled until Oscar's goal, was then in action again to save from Mata as Chelsea sensed they were finally exerting some control on proceedings.

BBC

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When aiming for clarity, consider replacing "exert some sense" with more common alternatives like "apply some judgment" or "use common sense".

Common error

Avoid using "exert some sense" in informal contexts. Opt for simpler phrases like "use your head" or "be reasonable" for a more natural feel.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "exert some sense" functions as a verb phrase, where "exert" is the verb indicating the application of something, and "some sense" is the object, referring to a degree of understanding or reason. Ludwig AI suggests it may sound awkward and offers alternatives.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

30%

Science

30%

Wiki

20%

Less common in

Formal & Business

10%

Academia

5%

Reference

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "exert some sense" is grammatically acceptable but not particularly common in contemporary English. Ludwig AI indicates that the phrase may sound awkward. While its intent is to suggest applying judgment or reason, more common alternatives like "apply some judgment" or "use common sense" often provide greater clarity. Usage spans across news, science, and general contexts but is relatively infrequent compared to its alternatives. Given its rarity and potential for misinterpretation, writers should carefully consider whether a more conventional phrase would better serve their purpose.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

apply some judgment

Replaces "exert" with "apply", focusing on the action of using judgment.

use some common sense

Highlights the use of practical and basic reasoning.

demonstrate some understanding

Replaces "exert" with "demonstrate", highlighting the act of showing comprehension.

demonstrate good sense

Highlights the presence of sound and reasonable judgment.

show some discernment

Uses "discernment" to emphasize the quality of insightful judgment.

bring some insight

Focuses on contributing valuable understanding to a situation.

display some wisdom

Emphasizes the quality of being wise and insightful in the given situation.

exercise some prudence

Focuses on careful and cautious judgment.

apply rational thinking

Highlights the use of logical thought processes.

employ sound reasoning

Focuses on the application of logical and valid arguments.

FAQs

What does "exert some sense" mean?

The phrase "exert some sense" implies applying a level of understanding, judgment, or reason to a situation. However, it's not a commonly used phrase and might sound awkward.

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

While you can use "exert some sense" to suggest applying understanding, it's often clearer to use alternatives. For example: "In this negotiation, we need to "apply some judgment".".

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

You can use alternatives like ""apply some judgment"", "demonstrate some understanding", or "use common sense" depending on the context.

Is "exert some sense" grammatically incorrect?

No, "exert some sense" is not grammatically incorrect, but it is less common and may sound unusual. Phrases like "use common sense" are more idiomatic.