levers

USAGE SUMMARY

The word "levers" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use the word "levers" to refer to a lever, or mechanical arm, that is used to make something move. For example, "The worker used the levers to raise the heavy box onto the shelf."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Some of these ideas are being tried elsewhere, but I haven't come across any other council pulling on so many different levers so hard and all at once.

The Guardian

Thus, whoever had control of Scotland's story most likely controlled its political discourse and therefore, but not always, its levers of power.

The Guardian

The old levers aren't working, which is why you're getting this raucous response – I love this stuff on Twitter, in which I'm being blamed for everything from the volcano to the assassination of JFK.

The Guardian

"It is no longer simply enough to get into power and, from Whitehall, pull the old social-democratic levers: tax rates and regulation, welfare payments and tax credits.

The Guardian

To his many critics in Budapest, this means hollowing out democracy, retaining a semblance of pluralism while controlling all the key levers.

The Guardian

Paul has used all the levers available to a senator to stand in the way of a bill in recent days, in full knowledge that the chamber's failure to pass legislation would disempower the country's spy agencies.

The Guardian

Both the Trident and ex-girlfriends stories smack of Tory operatives frantically stabbing at the old buttons and pulling at the familiar levers, only to find they no longer work.

The Guardian - Opinion

He understands more thoroughly than almost any other national newspaper manager how editorial operates, knowing which levers to pull.

The Guardian

It is priceless, because it acknowledges that most problems are difficult to solve and that governments can no longer pull levers and get results.

The Guardian - Opinion

They worried that Mr Martinelli was stealthily trying to keep his hands on the levers of power, especially after his wife was chosen as Mr Arias's running-mate.Mr Varela, the scion of a rum dynasty, also campaigned on a pledge to clean up politics.

The Economist

Mr Rohani's ability to prosper also lies in the ayatollah's hands, which control many of the levers of Iran's "deep state".

The Economist

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "levers" in a metaphorical sense, ensure the context clearly indicates what aspects are being controlled or influenced.

Common error

Avoid using "levers" repeatedly in close proximity, as it can make your writing sound repetitive. Vary your language by using synonyms or rephrasing your sentences.

Linguistic Context

The primary grammatical function of "levers" is as a plural noun. It typically refers to multiple mechanical devices or, metaphorically, to various means of control or influence. Ludwig AI confirms its proper usage in various contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

45%

Formal & Business

25%

Science

15%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

5%

Wiki

3%

Reference

7%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "levers" functions as a plural noun, denoting both physical mechanisms and metaphorical instruments of control. As Ludwig AI indicates, the word is grammatically correct and widely applicable. It frequently appears in news, business, and scientific contexts. When writing, it's important to ensure clarity when using "levers" metaphorically and avoid overuse. Understanding its function and context helps ensure precise and effective communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

mechanisms of control

Specifies the processes or systems that maintain control.

policy tools

Refers to the specific strategies or actions available to policymakers.

controlling factors

Focuses on the elements that exert control or influence.

means of influence

Highlights the ability to affect or shape outcomes.

critical success factors

Points out the elements that are crucial for achieving a desired outcome.

instruments of power

Emphasizes the tools or mechanisms used to wield authority.

regulatory measures

Implies official or mandated actions to govern behavior.

strategic advantages

Highlights the elements that provide a competitive edge.

essential elements

Focuses on the fundamental aspects necessary for success.

key components

Emphasizes the essential elements of a system or process.

FAQs

How is "levers" typically used in a sentence?

The term "levers" is often used to describe the means or instruments by which power, influence, or control is exerted. For example, "The government uses various policy "policy tools" to manage the economy".

What are some alternatives to using the word "levers"?

Depending on the context, you can use alternatives such as "controlling factors", "means of influence", or "mechanisms of control".

In political contexts, what does it mean to control the "levers" of power?

To control the "levers" of power means to hold key positions or have significant influence in government or other institutions that allow one to direct policy and make decisions.

Can "levers" refer to both physical devices and abstract concepts?

Yes, "levers" can refer to physical mechanical devices, but it is also commonly used metaphorically to describe any means of exerting influence or control, such as ""policy tools"" or "regulatory measures".