extra muscle

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "extra muscle" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to refer to additional strength or power, often in a figurative sense, such as in discussions about effort, resources, or support. Example: "To complete this project on time, we will need some extra muscle from the engineering team."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

"Extra muscle.

The Guardian - Film

Runners don't, and in fact they don't want any extra muscle weight on their legs.

The New York Times - Health

For some extra muscle toning in your legs, add in walking lunges.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Does extra muscle up top help propel him, or is it all in the hips?

The New York Times

Still, for a little extra muscle at the spade, I brought along my son, Bear.

The New York Times

One idea being floated involves giving extra muscle to the euro zone's permanent rescue fund — the European Stability Mechanism (E.S.M).

The New York Times

He added that, to a point, extra fat is accompanied by extra muscle, which can be healthy.

The New York Times - Health

The company also added extra muscle in its merger with the smaller carrier MetroPCS, which was completed in May.

The New York Times - Tech

He also added extra muscle to new solo songs like "Who's Your Baby Now," which featured four acoustic guitars strummed in unison.

The New York Times - Arts

And finally, Avon makes a deal to bring some extra muscle to his organisation's ranks – the bow-tied, Atlantic Monthly-reading, Walther PPK-carrying, bad motherfucker, Brother Mouzone.

The Guardian

These things are relative, just as finding some extra muscle has been a major part of his successful training regime at Barcelona.

The Guardian - Sport

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "extra muscle" in a figurative sense, ensure the context clearly indicates what is being strengthened or supported. For example, "The marketing team needs extra muscle to launch the new campaign successfully."

Common error

Avoid using "extra muscle" when literal physical strength is not the intended meaning. Using it to describe intellectual efforts or emotional resilience can be confusing.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "extra muscle" functions primarily as a noun phrase, often acting as the object of a verb or preposition. It denotes supplementary strength, power, or assistance. Ludwig provides numerous examples demonstrating this usage across various contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

65%

Science

15%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Wiki

5%

Encyclopedias

3%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "extra muscle" is a common and grammatically correct phrase used to denote additional strength, power, or support. Ludwig AI confirms its usability across various contexts, with a neutral register making it suitable for both professional and general communication. The phrase is frequently found in news and media sources, indicating its widespread understanding and acceptance. While direct alternatives exist, such as "added support" or "increased power", the specific choice depends on the desired nuance. Remember to avoid using "extra muscle" in scenarios where literal physical strength is not intended to prevent misinterpretation.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

additional strength

Focuses on the aspect of increased power or force.

added support

Emphasizes the provision of supplementary assistance or backing.

increased power

Highlights the enhancement of capacity or influence.

supplemental force

Stresses the additional exertion or pressure applied.

reinforced effort

Implies a strengthened or intensified attempt.

boosted capacity

Emphasizes expanded capability or potential.

greater influence

Focuses on the amplification of persuasive effect.

enhanced capability

Highlights the improvement of skills or abilities.

auxiliary assistance

Emphasizes the provision of supplementary help.

intensified backing

Implies a stronger form of support or endorsement.

FAQs

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

You can use "extra muscle" to describe additional support, strength, or resources that are being applied to a task or situation. For example, "We need to bring in some "additional personnel" to provide "extra muscle" for the project."

What are some alternatives to "extra muscle"?

Depending on the context, you can use alternatives like "added support", "increased power", or "supplemental force".

Is it appropriate to use "extra muscle" in formal writing?

While "extra muscle" is widely understood, it may be more suitable for informal or neutral contexts. In formal writing, consider using more precise alternatives like "additional resources" or "enhanced capacity".

What does "extra muscle" mean in a business context?

In a business context, "extra muscle" often refers to additional staff, funding, or technological resources that are deployed to achieve a specific objective or overcome a challenge. The WTO has agreed that China's rampant piracy problem is a breach of its treaty obligations, giving the U.S. "extra muscle" to press China for financial compensation.