follow a strategy

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "follow a strategy" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use this phrase to describe an approach to solving a problem or addressing a situation. For example, "To increase customer satisfaction, the company decided to follow a strategy of open communication with its clients."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

28 human-written examples

He predicted that next year's candidates would follow a strategy of stressing the party's bedrock principles.

The New York Times

Even so, for a country to follow a strategy of export-led recovery requires others to consume.

The Guardian - Opinion

As he wrote in 1938, "By 1933 I had already decided to follow a strategy of resistance that could be carried right to the end".

The Guardian

The Ka'apor – a tribe of about 2,200 people in Maranhão state – have organised a militia of "forest guardians" who follow a strategy of nature conservation through aggressive confrontation.

The Guardian

JAMES SUROWIECKI: Conservative economist Milton Friedman, in 1998, famously recommended that the Japanese follow a strategy similar to the one Bernanke is pursuing in order to get the Japanese economy out of the doldrums.

The New Yorker

But if Romney were to reach the Oval Office, he would probably follow a strategy similar to Roberts's, espousing conservative views but, when it came to acting rather than talking, hewing to the center on some big issues.

The New Yorker

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

32 human-written examples

Asustek, however, followed a strategy that emphasized design and innovation.

The New York Times - Tech

Following a strategy laid out by his crew chief, Greg Zipadelli, Stewart stayed near the front of the pack all day.

The New York Times - Sports

His firm has abandoned the private-equity model and now follows a strategy of buy, improve and hold.

The Economist

Following a strategy that was modestly successful last season, the Mets added another reliever yesterday to a pitching staff that seems to have no available spots.

The New York Times - Sports

Mr. Dolan has also followed a strategy of Mr. Heimbold's, to fight hard to fend off generic competition for top-selling drugs.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "follow a strategy", ensure the strategy is well-defined and understood by all parties involved. This clarity helps in consistent execution and better outcomes.

Common error

Avoid blindly "follow a strategy" without critically evaluating its suitability for the current context. Adapt the strategy as needed based on new information or changing circumstances.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "follow a strategy" functions as a verb phrase, indicating the action of adhering to a specific plan or method. Ludwig confirms that the phrase is correct and usable in written English.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Science

30%

Wiki

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "follow a strategy" is a grammatically correct and usable verb phrase that describes the act of adhering to a specific plan or method. As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase is suitable for various contexts, particularly in News & Media and Science, where it is used to describe the implementation of pre-determined courses of action. While "follow a strategy" is relatively common, it's essential to ensure the strategy is well-defined and critically evaluated to adapt to changing circumstances. Alternatives such as "adopt a tactic" or "pursue a plan" can be used depending on the specific nuance.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

adopt a tactic

This alternative focuses on the specific method used, suggesting a more active selection of a particular course of action.

employ an approach

This alternative highlights the method used to deal with a problem, suggesting a systematic and considered manner.

pursue a plan

This alternative emphasizes the active striving towards a goal, with a focus on the sequence of actions intended to achieve it.

implement a method

This alternative emphasizes the practical application of a systematic procedure or technique to achieve a specific outcome.

stick to a course of action

This alternative focuses on the adherence to a decided method, even when facing difficulties or temptations to deviate.

maintain a strategic direction

This alternative suggests a sustained and deliberate effort to keep on a pre-determined path, especially in a complex situation.

act according to a methodology

This alternative stresses the reliance on a set of principles and procedures that guide behavior in a certain field.

operate under a scheme

This alternative indicates working within a pre-defined framework that dictates specific actions and objectives.

abide by a system

This alternative emphasizes the compliance with established rules and regulations as a means of achieving consistency and order.

work within a framework

This alternative indicates operating inside a defined structure with guidelines and limitations.

FAQs

How can I use "follow a strategy" in a sentence?

You can use "follow a strategy" to describe adhering to a specific plan or approach. For instance, "The company decided to "follow a strategy" of aggressive marketing to increase sales."

What are some alternatives to "follow a strategy"?

Instead of "follow a strategy", you could use phrases like "adopt a tactic", "employ an approach", or "pursue a plan" depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it always beneficial to "follow a strategy"?

While having a strategy is generally beneficial, blindly "follow a strategy" without adapting to changing circumstances can be detrimental. Flexibility and critical evaluation are key.

What's the difference between "follow a strategy" and "develop a strategy"?

"Develop a strategy" refers to creating or designing a plan, while "follow a strategy" means implementing or adhering to an existing plan. You first develop, then you "follow a strategy".