it took strength

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "it took strength" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to describe a situation where significant effort, resilience, or courage was required to achieve something. Example: "After months of training and preparation, it took strength to finally compete in the marathon."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

5 human-written examples

Dead to me took nerve, it took strength.

The New York Times

These jeans were packed so thickly on the rack it took strength to shove then aside to find the right size and style.

The New York Times

Then it took strength I never knew I had to drag myself out from under the covers and along the corridor to the shower room.

The Guardian

It took strength and leadership to make the tough choices that led to this positive turning point for Hawaii".

Huffington Post

It took strength and courage to walk down the street as a transgender woman of color, as Aniya was doing the night she was killed.

Huffington Post

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

54 human-written examples

It takes strength to work through it.

The New York Times

And it takes strength: musical and physical.

The New York Times - Arts

It takes strength to tell uncomfortable truths.

The Guardian - Opinion

Man, what he's been through, it takes strength".

The New York Times - Sports

It takes strength and courage to interpret their words into English.

The Guardian

It takes strength as well as guile to make a 1,200-pound 1,200-poundhanimal want it to.

The New York Times - Sports

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "it took strength" when you want to emphasize the significant effort, courage, or resilience needed to overcome a specific challenge or achieve a particular goal. This phrase highlights the demanding nature of the situation.

Common error

Avoid using "it took strength" in overly passive constructions that obscure who or what possessed the strength. Instead, focus on the actor demonstrating strength for clearer and more impactful writing.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "it took strength" functions as a declarative statement asserting that a situation or action necessitated the use of power, resilience, or courage. Ludwig AI indicates it's a correct and usable phrase in English. The examples demonstrate its use in highlighting challenging circumstances.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Science

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "it took strength" is a grammatically sound expression used to convey that a situation demanded considerable effort, courage, or resilience. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and usability. While relatively rare, its usage is most common in news and media contexts. To enhance clarity, consider focusing on the actor who demonstrated strength and, when appropriate, explore semantically similar phrases like "strength was required" or "it demanded resilience" to add nuance to your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

strength was required

This alternative uses a passive construction, emphasizing the need for strength rather than who possessed it.

it demanded resilience

Changes the focus to resilience, highlighting the ability to recover quickly from difficulties.

courage was necessary

Shifts the focus to courage, emphasizing bravery in a challenging situation.

it necessitated power

Emphasizes the essential need for power to accomplish a task or overcome an obstacle.

effort was essential

Highlights the crucial role of effort in achieving a particular outcome.

it called for fortitude

Emphasizes the need for mental and emotional strength in facing adversity.

determination was vital

Focuses on the importance of resolve and unwavering commitment.

resolve was paramount

Underscores the critical importance of a firm decision to achieve something.

tenacity was key

Highlights the importance of persistence and determination in overcoming obstacles.

it required grit

Focuses on the need for courage and resolve in the face of difficulty.

FAQs

How can I use "it took strength" in a sentence?

You can use "it took strength" to emphasize the effort, courage, or resilience needed to overcome a challenge. For example, "It took strength to leave that abusive relationship" or "It took strength to complete the marathon after the injury".

What are some alternatives to "it took strength"?

Alternatives include phrases like "strength was required", "it demanded resilience", or "courage was necessary", depending on the specific context and the nuance you want to convey.

Is "it took strength" formal or informal?

"It took strength" is generally considered neutral in tone and can be used in both formal and informal contexts. However, for more formal writing, you might consider using alternatives like "strength was required" to increase formality.

What's the difference between "it took strength" and "it required strength"?

Both phrases convey a similar meaning, but "it required strength" might be perceived as slightly more formal. "It took strength" emphasizes the action of taking or using strength, while "it required strength" focuses on the necessity of strength.