lifelines

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "lifelines" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to refer to sources of support or assistance in difficult situations, often in a metaphorical sense. Example: "In times of crisis, friends and family can serve as vital lifelines, providing emotional and practical support."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

If your iPhone rings, you will be able to take the call on your Mac in effect, using it as a speakerphone.In this section The limits to Infiniti Frictionless fruit Costly cures Mining for tweets of gold Looking for lifelines Soft power Globo domination Dissecting the Kochtopus ReprintsApple is not the first to make such a promise.

The Economist

From China's point of view, it is better to preserve North Korea's few remaining economic lifelines than risk nudging Kim Jong Il's regime towards an implosion that could send millions pouring across the Chinese border.

The Economist

Local residents now want to form an "autonomous government" in the style of the Zapatists in the state of Chiapas.In this section Lifelines for Brazil and Uruguay Progress or collapse Grounded Joe goes, will Jean?

The Economist

For drug companies this raises a ghastly spectre: that America might, at last, begin to act like the rest of the world.In this section The limits to Infiniti Frictionless fruit Mining for tweets of gold Costly cures Looking for lifelines Soft power Globo domination Dissecting the Kochtopus ReprintsEuropean countries have long scrutinised drug prices, a practice that has intensified of late.

The Economist

But it owed more to Bolivia's economic troubles, and especially those of the impoverished countryside.In this section Lifelines for Brazil and Uruguay Progress or collapse Grounded Joe goes, will Jean?

The Economist

The budget in essence prescribes once-off measures to plug holes.Retreating from free-market economics, Mr Berlusconi's team is making noises about lifelines for troubled private-sector firms.

The Economist

The border areas are vital lifelines for the fighters and civilians whose numbers have swelled as Syrians from other areas of the country have left their homes.The regime justifies such assaults by saying that fighters (whom they brand "terrorists") are operating in civilian areas.

The Economist

Dealing on the black market, barter, subsistence and foreign currency sent by friends and relatives abroad are the lifelines for most Zimbabweans.Related items Zimbabwe: Misery and stalemateNov 20th 2008 Zimbabwe: Can the new deal work?Sep 18th 2008 Robert Mugabe: The man behind the fistMar 29th 2007For the first time in recent history Zimbabwe's security forces have started to voice their anger.

The Economist

The swaps offered by China are symbolically important, but are "more like straws than lifelines" for countries gasping for liquidity, says Eswar Prasad of Cornell University.

The Economist

To do that they must hold their nerve and let firms fail: a culture of bankruptcy should replace the lifelines and "evergreening" of useless loans.

The Economist

So communication and building trust are vital.In this section The limits to Infiniti Frictionless fruit Mining for tweets of gold Costly cures Looking for lifelines Soft power Globo domination Dissecting the Kochtopus ReprintsGE understands the importance of soft power.

The Economist

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When writing about abstract concepts like emotional support or financial aid, use "lifelines" to create a vivid image of essential connections in times of need.

Common error

Avoid using "lifelines" in contexts where the support is trivial or non-essential. This diminishes the impact and clarity of your writing.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "lifelines" functions primarily as a noun, referring to essential connections, support systems, or resources necessary for survival or success. Ludwig AI confirms the phrase is correct and usable in English.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

72%

Encyclopedias

5%

Formal & Business

5%

Less common in

Science

5%

Academia

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "lifelines" is a grammatically sound and frequently used expression referring to vital sources of support or assistance. As confirmed by Ludwig AI, it's appropriate across a wide range of contexts, particularly in news and media, to highlight crucial connections or resources. While versatile, it's best to avoid overuse in trivial contexts. Alternative expressions include "support systems" and "safety nets", each with slightly different connotations. Remember that while grammatically correct, always consider the specific context for effective communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

support systems

Refers to the broader network of resources and relationships providing assistance.

safety nets

Implies a protective measure against potential hardship or failure.

essential resources

Highlights the critical and indispensable nature of the resources.

critical infrastructure

Focuses on the fundamental systems necessary for a society or organization to function.

economic aid

Specifically refers to financial assistance.

lines of communication

Emphasizes the importance of maintaining connections for information flow and support.

sources of sustenance

Highlights the means of survival and nourishment, both literally and figuratively.

avenues of assistance

Indicates the pathways or methods through which help is provided.

backup plans

Focuses on alternative strategies or resources available in case of emergency.

sustaining connections

Highlights the role of relationships in providing ongoing support and resilience.

FAQs

How can I use "lifelines" in a sentence?

You can use "lifelines" to describe essential support systems, resources, or connections that help individuals or organizations overcome challenges. For example, "During the economic crisis, government subsidies served as vital "lifelines" for struggling businesses".

What are some alternatives to "lifelines"?

Alternatives to "lifelines" include "support systems", "safety nets", and "essential resources". The best choice depends on the specific context and the nuance you want to convey.

Is it appropriate to use "lifelines" in formal writing?

Yes, "lifelines" can be used in formal writing, particularly when discussing critical support mechanisms or essential connections. However, be mindful of the context and ensure it aligns with the overall tone and style.

What's the difference between "lifelines" and "coping mechanisms"?

"Lifelines" typically refer to external sources of support or aid, such as financial assistance or social networks. "Coping mechanisms", on the other hand, are internal strategies or behaviors used to manage stress or difficult emotions.