launch a bid

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "launch a bid" is correct and usable in written English.
It is typically used to refer to an offer or proposal to purchase something, like a company, or an agreement to undertake a project. For example, "The conglomerate decided to launch a bid to acquire the small tech company."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

This makes it easier to build a stake and launch a bid.

The Economist

There is speculation that Pfizer may launch a bid for AstraZeneca.

The Economist

Angela Eagle is expected to launch a bid for the Labour leadership on Thursday.

The Guardian

He's now +1 - can this launch a bid for this championship?

The Guardian - Sport

Chievo have played down reports that they are to launch a bid for Paolo Di Canio.

The Guardian - Sport

The move has prompted speculation that he could launch a bid for the Aim-listed Italian restaurant chain.

The Guardian - Business

As part of the continuing reviews, the ICC is also discussing whether to launch a bid to join the Olympics.

The Guardian - Sport

The Blairites have seized on Labour's defeat to launch a bid to take back control of the party.

The Guardian - Opinion

It is to launch a bid on Monday to secure a UN mandate for armed action in Libya's territorial waters.

The Guardian

The Spain international has been linked with a return to his home country, with Atletico Madrid believed to be prepared to launch a bid for him.

Independent

Chelsea manager Carlo Ancelotti is planning to launch a bid to sign Sergio Aguero from Atletico Madrid in a £45m deal according to various reports.

Independent

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "launch a bid" in a business context, ensure that the bid is thoroughly researched and financially sound to avoid potential setbacks.

Common error

Avoid announcing your intention to "launch a bid" before securing necessary funding or partnerships. Premature announcements can alert competitors and weaken your position.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "launch a bid" functions primarily as a verbal phrase, typically used in transitive constructions. It signifies the initiation of a formal offer or proposal, often in business, politics, or sports, as shown in Ludwig's examples.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

65%

Formal & Business

25%

Science

5%

Less common in

Wiki

3%

Encyclopedias

1%

Reference

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "launch a bid" is a very common and grammatically sound phrase used to describe the beginning of a formal offering or attempt, as affirmed by Ludwig. It frequently appears in news and business contexts. When using the phrase, ensure that the bid is thoroughly prepared, and avoid making premature announcements. Consider alternatives such as ""submit a proposal"" or ""make an offer"" depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

make an offer

Highlights the act of presenting a specific price or terms.

submit a proposal

Focuses on the formal submission of a plan or offer.

put forward a tender

Emphasizes the formal submission in a competitive process.

present a proposition

Highlights the act of offering something for consideration.

initiate a campaign

Shifts the context to starting a concerted effort for a specific goal.

unveil a strategy

Emphasizes the revealing of a plan to achieve a goal.

mount an effort

Emphasizes the scale and determination of the undertaking.

introduce a motion

Refers to formally presenting a proposal for discussion or vote.

commence an initiative

Highlights the beginning of a new project or plan.

undertake an endeavor

Focuses on the ambitious nature of the attempt.

FAQs

How can I use "launch a bid" in a sentence?

You can use "launch a bid" to describe the act of making an offer, such as "The company decided to "launch a bid" for its competitor" or "The city will "launch a bid" to host the Olympic Games".

What are some alternatives to "launch a bid"?

Some alternatives to "launch a bid" include "make an offer", "submit a proposal", or "put forward a tender". The best choice depends on the specific context.

Is it more appropriate to "launch a bid" or "submit a bid"?

"Launch a bid" often implies a more proactive and public initiation of the bidding process, while "submit a bid" is a more general term for formally presenting an offer. The suitability depends on the desired emphasis.

What's the difference between "launch a bid" and "start a bid"?

"Launch a bid" suggests a formal and often strategic initiation, whereas "start a bid" can imply a more informal or preliminary stage in the bidding process. Consider the level of formality when choosing between the two.