line of attack

USAGE SUMMARY

"line of attack" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
It refers to a specific strategy or plan for approaching or tackling a problem or issue. Example: The defense attorney carefully constructed his line of attack in order to discredit the prosecution's main witness during cross-examination.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

58 human-written examples

What's wrong with this line of attack?

The New York Times

House Democrats signaled their line of attack.

The New York Times

And one line of attack was personal.

The New York Times

But that line of attack is off-beam.

The Economist

Also at FEMA, Mr. Obama countered that line of attack.

The New York Times

For another, it is a ludicrously complex line of attack.

The Economist

There's something off about Mr. Ryan's line of attack.

The New York Times

A single line of attack would be more credible.

The Economist

Mr Donohue's answer to this line of attack?

The Economist

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

2 human-written examples

What was the committee's main line of attack?

The Guardian - Business

From this line of attack the animal had no defence.

The Guardian - Books

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "line of attack", ensure the context clearly indicates the specific problem or opponent being addressed. This avoids ambiguity and strengthens the impact of your statement.

Common error

Avoid combining "line of attack" with conflicting metaphors. For example, avoid saying "a defensive line of attack", as it creates a confusing image. Choose language that aligns with the intended meaning of a strategic advance.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "line of attack" primarily functions as a noun phrase, often acting as the subject or object of a sentence. It signifies a specific strategy or method used to confront a problem or challenge. Ludwig AI confirms its appropriate usage in varied contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

65%

Science

15%

Wiki

5%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "line of attack" is a common and grammatically correct noun phrase used to describe a strategic approach or method for confronting a problem or challenge. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's applicable across diverse contexts, particularly in news and media. While phrases like "strategic approach" or "plan of action" offer similar meanings, "line of attack" often implies a more assertive or combative approach. When employing this phrase, clarity is key; ensure that the target and purpose are well-defined for maximum impact.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

attacking strategy

Highlights the aggressive nature of the approach.

offensive strategy

Similar to attacking strategy, but can apply in non-combative situations.

plan of action

A formal strategy, outlining specific steps and objectives.

strategic approach

Focuses on the overall plan rather than the specific method of confrontation.

strategic plan

A comprehensive and long-term approach to achieve specific goals.

tactical maneuver

Emphasizes a specific action taken within a larger strategy.

method of approach

Highlights the manner in which something is initially addressed.

course of action

Refers to a sequence of steps taken to achieve a goal.

game plan

Implies a detailed strategy, often used in competitive contexts.

critical approach

Focuses on analytical and evaluative methods.

FAQs

How can I use "line of attack" in a sentence?

You can use "line of attack" to describe a strategic approach. For example: "The lawyer's "line of attack" focused on discrediting the witness."

What phrases are similar to "line of attack"?

Alternatives include "strategic approach", "plan of action", or "attacking strategy", each emphasizing different aspects of a strategic method.

Is "line of attack" appropriate for formal writing?

Yes, "line of attack" is suitable for both formal and informal contexts, though in academic or scientific writing, more neutral terms like "method of approach" might be preferred.

What is the difference between "line of attack" and "strategy"?

"Strategy" refers to the overall plan, while "line of attack" is a specific method or approach within that strategy. A "plan of action" might involve multiple lines of attack.