exert superiority

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "exert superiority" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used in contexts where one entity demonstrates dominance or control over another, often in discussions of power dynamics or competition. Example: "In the debate, she aimed to exert superiority over her opponent by presenting well-researched arguments."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

2 human-written examples

Question it, fight it even, when it is used to oppress, control or exert superiority over others.

The Guardian - Opinion

Mourinho's first term at Stamford Bridge saw him exert superiority over rivals such as Manchester United's Sir Alex Ferguson and Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger with back-to-back titles in 2004-05 and 2005-06.

BBC

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

57 human-written examples

Kompany's four-game ban for his contentious red card against United meant a place for Savic in central defence and Liverpool, with Gerrard setting the tempo, played on the Montenegrin's uncertainty to exert total superiority early on.

BBC

The change in personnel did not disrupt the discipline and organisation that is Bayern's trademark, however, as City were frustrated in all their attempts to exert early superiority.

BBC

United had 75.2% of possession - 78.8% in the second half - and yet it seemed they were only able to exert their superiority and pose a threat when fatigue set in for Cambridge.

BBC

Villa needed a touch of class to exert some superiority and Gil - already a crowd favourite - provided it after 51 minutes, showing clever sleight of foot before curling a magnificent 25-yard finish high past Camp.

BBC

That was how Street's side exerted their superiority during a frantic start, gradually breaking their opponents down and edging forward mechanically until the mistake from Canada arrived.

The Guardian - Sport

Arsenal finally exerted their superiority through Mikel Arteta's twice-taken penalty after 67 minutes following Gareth Barry's injudicious challenge on Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain.

BBC

Arsenal finally exerted their superiority through Mikel Arteta's twice-taken penalty after 67 minutes before substitute Olivier Giroud struck twice in the last 10 minutes to give the hosts a winning margin that was harsh on Everton.

BBC

United - despite manager David Moyes' fanciful claims that they more or less dominated the whole game against the Black Cats - were only in the process of exerting their superiority when Januzaj ensured some of the clouds gathering over the Premier League champions and their new manager rolled away into the Wearside night.

BBC

My favourite is in Good Will Hunting, when a pretentious Harvard student with a ponytail tries to exert his intellectual superiority over Will Hunting's friend by plagiarising a textbook he's read.

Independent

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "exert superiority", ensure the context clearly defines the area in which the superiority is being demonstrated. Providing specific examples strengthens the impact of the statement.

Common error

Avoid using "exert superiority" without providing evidence or context. Overstating a claim without backing can undermine credibility.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "exert superiority" functions primarily as a verb phrase, where "exert" acts as a transitive verb taking "superiority" as its direct object. This structure describes the active application of dominance or control. Ludwig AI indicates that this phrase is usable in contexts that demonstrate dominance or control.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Science

20%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

3%

Wiki

3%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "exert superiority" is a grammatically sound phrase used to describe the active demonstration of dominance. Though relatively rare, according to Ludwig AI, it appears primarily in news and media contexts, suggesting a neutral to professional register. To use it effectively, ensure the context clearly defines where the superiority is demonstrated. Remember to substantiate any claims of superiority with evidence to avoid undermining your credibility. Alternatives such as "demonstrate dominance" or "assert control" offer similar meanings with slight variations in emphasis.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

demonstrate dominance

Focuses on the act of showing power, differing from exerting, which implies active application of power.

assert control

Highlights the act of declaring and enforcing control, whereas "exert superiority" focuses on demonstrating a higher position.

establish dominance

Emphasizes setting up a position of power, compared to actively using existing power as in "exert superiority".

exercise authority

Focuses on the use of official power, unlike "exert superiority" which can be more general.

wield power

Highlights the active use of influence or control, similar to exerting but less specific to superiority.

maintain control

Emphasizes keeping existing control, compared to gaining or showing it through "exert superiority".

dominate proceedings

Describes controlling a specific event or process, whereas "exert superiority" has a broader application.

gain the upper hand

Focuses on achieving a dominant position, unlike "exert superiority" which implies already having it.

establish ascendancy

Highlights achieving a leading position, distinct from actively demonstrating superiority.

enforce supremacy

Focuses on actively making sure that something or someone is superior and using power to maintain that position.

FAQs

How can I effectively use "exert superiority" in a sentence?

To effectively use "exert superiority", clearly specify the context in which the superiority is demonstrated. For instance, "The company aimed to "dominate the market" by exerting its technological superiority" provides a clear and understandable application.

What are some alternatives to the phrase "exert superiority"?

Alternatives to "exert superiority" include phrases like "demonstrate dominance", "assert control", or "wield power". The best choice depends on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it always appropriate to use the phrase "exert superiority"?

The appropriateness of using "exert superiority" depends on the context and the tone you wish to convey. It is best used when describing factual displays of dominance rather than subjective claims. Be mindful that it can sometimes carry a negative connotation.

What is the difference between "exert superiority" and "possess superiority"?

"Exert superiority" implies actively demonstrating and applying one's advantages, while "possess superiority" simply means having an advantage without necessarily using it. For example, a country might "wield power" by exerting military superiority, even if it possesses economic superiority.