leverage

USAGE SUMMARY

The word "leverage" is correct and can be used in written English.
It typically refers to the act of using something to gain a desired outcome or advantage. It can be used as both a noun and a verb. Example sentence: By leveraging her knowledge of social media, she was able to increase her profile and bring in more customers for her business.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

It said: [Evraz] is seeking approval...of the holders of the notes to remove a covenant requiring the company to maintain the net leverage ratio at or below a specified level.

The Guardian - Business

If the money can be raised, then the eurogroup's leverage will evaporate.

The Guardian

His biggest strategic miscalculation was not to use the leverage he had over George Bush as the only substantial western ally to join the 2003 invasion – the "coalition of the willing" – to extract a better plan for the occupation of Saddam Hussein's ill-governed state once the fighting was over (even sooner than expected).

The Guardian

But its lack of leverage in Congress has long been Obama's achilles heel, and lawmakers from both parties now argue they should have a say in the alleviation of sanctions that were imposed by the legislature in the first place.

The Guardian

Speaking after the address, Sturgeon denied the prospect of another referendum was a threat that would be used as leverage any time there was a disagreement with UK government policy.

The Guardian

We maintain that ITV has a rare mix of operating leverage, asset backing and significant financial headroom, with a world-class management team.

The Guardian - Business

Police also had leverage over Griggs: he was a heroin addict.

The Guardian

Since coming to power in January, the Greek government, led by the prime minister, Alexis Tsipras's Syriza party, has believed that the threat of default – and thus of a financial crisis that might break up the euro –provides negotiating leverage to offset Greece's lack of economic and political power.

The Guardian - Business

"While we have and will continue to leverage the information received by the department, we are not relying solely on their findings but rather the facts that we have gathered and verified," she said.

The Guardian

Supporters revived it using the leverage of imminent expiration of a broader surveillance authority.

The Guardian

Increased supplies of oil from non-Middle East countries, such as Angola, coupled with the advent of alternative green-energy systems, improved conservation, and heightened awareness about the need to curb carbon emissions, are also reducing Saudi leverage.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "leverage", ensure the context clearly indicates what is being used to gain an advantage. For instance, specify the resource or strategy employed for increased effectiveness.

Common error

Avoid using "leverage" excessively in business contexts without providing specific details. Overuse can make your communication sound vague and less impactful. Instead, clearly state how resources are being utilized for specific outcomes.

Linguistic Context

The word "leverage" functions as both a noun and a verb. As a noun, it refers to an advantage or influence. As a verb, it means to use something to maximize its effect, consistent with Ludwig AI's assessment.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Formal & Business

30%

Science

15%

Less common in

Academia

5%

Encyclopedias

5%

Wiki

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "leverage" is a versatile term, functioning as both a noun and a verb, to describe the strategic use of resources or influence to achieve a desired outcome. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and wide applicability. It is frequently found in news, business, and scientific contexts, indicating its relevance across various registers. While "leverage" is a useful term, avoid overuse in business jargon and clearly specify how resources are being utilized. By understanding its nuances and applications, you can effectively "leverage" this word in your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

Utilize

Focuses more on the act of using something effectively.

Capitalize on

Emphasizes taking advantage of an opportunity.

Employ

A formal term for using a resource or method.

Harness

Implies controlling and directing power or resources.

Draw on

Suggests using something as a source of support or power.

Take advantage of

A more general way to express using something for benefit.

Make the most of

Focuses on optimizing the use of available resources or opportunities.

Exploit

Can have a negative connotation, suggesting unfair use.

Build upon

Implies using a foundation to create something greater.

Maximize

Focuses on getting the most out of something.

FAQs

How can I use "leverage" in a sentence?

You can use "leverage" to describe using something to maximum advantage, such as "They plan to "leverage publicity" to boost sales".

What are some alternatives to the word "leverage"?

Depending on the context, alternatives to "leverage" include "utilize", "capitalize on", or "harness".

Is it correct to use "leverage" as a verb?

Yes, it is correct to use "leverage" as a verb. It means to use something to gain an advantage, such as "We can "leverage technology" to improve efficiency".

What's the difference between "leverage" and "exploit"?

"Leverage" generally implies using resources effectively to achieve a positive outcome, whereas "exploit" often carries a negative connotation, suggesting unfair or unethical use.