has its way

USAGE SUMMARY

"has its way" is a perfectly acceptable and commonly used phrase in written English.
It usually means that something happens or works out the way it was intended. For example, "We are confident that justice will have its way in the end."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

It has its way of being part of the story, because it is part of us.

Independent

It didn't work -- but if the GOP has its way, it'll work next year.

Huffington Post

If the industry has its way, it will go to other countries.

The New Yorker

If Oracle has its way it will be for a lot longer.

Independent

If Hollywood has its way, it will be the latter.

Forbes

"If Microsoft has its way it will eat their lunch," concludes Next Generation's Svensson.

Forbes

A place has its way with you — it marks you long before you start to belong.

The New York Times - Magazine

At least it will be if Gucci has its way.

Forbes

His nature has its way.

The New York Times

No more, if Google has its way.

MIT Technology Review

"Life has its way of coming around".

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "has its way" to indicate that a plan or desire is likely to be fulfilled, especially when there's an element of control or influence involved. Consider the context to ensure it appropriately conveys the intended level of agency or inevitability.

Common error

Avoid using "has its way" when the outcome is purely coincidental or lacks a clear driving force. This phrase implies a degree of intention or influence, so ensure it aligns with the actual circumstances.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "has its way" functions as a predicate in a sentence, indicating that a subject will achieve a desired outcome or exert its influence to reach a particular result. Ludwig examples demonstrate its use across various contexts to signify a preferred outcome.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

98%

Academia

1%

Formal & Business

1%

Less common in

Science

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "has its way" is a versatile expression used to convey the idea that someone or something will likely achieve its desired outcome. According to Ludwig AI, it is grammatically correct and frequently used across various contexts, especially in news and media. The phrase implies a degree of control, influence, or inevitability, suggesting that the subject is not merely hoping for a result but actively shaping it. While broadly acceptable, writers should consider the specific tone and audience, opting for more formal alternatives like "secures its objective" in highly academic settings. Remember to use the phrase judiciously, ensuring the context aligns with the implied level of agency. By understanding these nuances, you can effectively use "has its way" to add depth and precision to your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

gets its preference

Focuses on the preference being achieved, rather than the method.

achieves its aim

Highlights the accomplishment of a specific goal.

secures its objective

Emphasizes the securement of a defined objective.

prevails as intended

Highlights the successful overpowering to get what was intended.

realizes its ambition

Highlights the realization of a bigger ambition

enforces its will

Focuses on the exertion of power to achieve a desired result.

imposes its decision

Highlights the act of enforcing a decision, often against resistance.

dictates the outcome

Emphasizes control over the final result.

orchestrates events

Focuses on the planning and arrangement to achieve a specific result.

maneuvers successfully

Highlights skillful maneuvering to attain a goal.

FAQs

How can I use "has its way" in a sentence?

You can use "has its way" to indicate that someone or something will achieve their desired outcome. For example, "If the company "has its way", all employees will work remotely."

What does "has its way" mean?

"Has its way" means that someone or something is likely to get the outcome they desire, often through influence or control. It suggests a degree of inevitability in achieving a preferred result.

What are some alternatives to "has its way"?

Alternatives include "gets its preference", "achieves its aim", or "enforces its will", depending on the specific context and nuance you want to convey.

Is it appropriate to use "has its way" in formal writing?

While "has its way" is generally acceptable, consider the specific tone and audience. In highly formal contexts, a more precise or nuanced phrase like "secures its objective" might be more suitable.