gained force

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "gained force" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe something that has become more powerful or influential over time, often in a figurative sense. Example: "The movement for climate change awareness has gained force in recent years, attracting more supporters and media attention."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

58 human-written examples

As the conservative movement gained force, Mr. McGovern's popularity dropped.

The New York Times

Later, as Neoclassical attitudes gained force, he was increasingly despised.

Britannica

An anti-Somoza insurgency gained force during the 1970s.

The New York Times

The shouts only gained force. "Not getting my vote!" one woman near me cried.

The New York Times - Magazine

Even as the crisis gained force, European denial and deflection dominated.

The New York Times

Over the past few years, the movement to stop invasive research on chimpanzees has gained force.

The New York Times

If the logic wasn't rigorous, it gained force as the polls turned in his favor.

The New Yorker

Far-right political parties in France and Austria have gained force.

The New York Times

But it was not until late May that the campaign gained force.

The Economist

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

2 human-written examples

But in some states an alternate view appeared to be gaining force.

The New York Times

Grace Mugabe's public attacks on Mujuru have been gaining force in recent weeks.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "gained force" to describe the increasing impact or intensity of movements, ideas, or phenomena. For example, "The environmental movement gained force after the release of the documentary."

Common error

Avoid using "gained force" to describe physical objects simply becoming larger or heavier. It's better suited for abstract concepts or processes that intensify. Instead of "The river gained force after the rain", consider "The river's current intensified after the rain".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "gained force" functions as a verb phrase, typically used as the predicate of a clause. It describes a process where something becomes more powerful, influential, or intense. Ludwig indicates this is correct and widely accepted.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

93%

Encyclopedias

3%

Formal & Business

1%

Less common in

Science

1%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "gained force" is a versatile and commonly used verb phrase to describe an increase in power, influence, or intensity. According to Ludwig AI, the phrase is correct and usable in written English. It is particularly prevalent in news and media contexts where it is used to highlight the growing impact of movements, ideas, or events. When using "gained force", it's best to reserve it for abstract concepts or processes that intensify over time, rather than physical objects simply growing larger. Alternatives such as ""gained momentum"", "increased in strength", or "became more powerful" can offer nuanced variations in meaning.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

gained momentum

Emphasizes the increasing speed and drive of something.

increased in strength

Highlights the growing power or resilience of something.

became more powerful

Directly states the rise in authority or influence.

gathered strength

Suggests a gradual accumulation of power or intensity.

built up power

Implies a deliberate and progressive increase in influence.

escalated in intensity

Focuses on the rising level of force or emotion.

rose in prominence

Highlights an increase in visibility and importance.

waxed stronger

Uses a more formal and literary tone to describe increasing strength.

amplified its effect

Stresses the enlargement or enhancement of an impact.

advanced in influence

Highlights the progress and expansion of persuasive power.

FAQs

How can I use "gained force" in a sentence?

Use "gained force" to describe how an abstract concept, movement, or idea becomes more influential or powerful over time. For example, "The campaign for better healthcare has "gained momentum" and is now "gaining force" in the legislature".

What can I say instead of "gained force"?

You can use alternatives like ""gained momentum"", "increased in strength", or "became more powerful", depending on the specific nuance you wish to convey.

Is it correct to say that a physical object "gained force"?

While grammatically correct, it's generally better to reserve "gained force" for abstract concepts. For physical phenomena, consider alternatives like "intensified", "strengthened", or "increased in intensity".

What is the difference between "gained force" and "gained momentum"?

"Gained force" implies an increase in power or intensity, while ""gained momentum"" suggests an increase in speed or progress. They are similar, but "gained force" often implies a more substantial impact.