lines of effort

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "lines of effort" is correct and usable in written English.
It is typically used in contexts such as project management, military operations, or strategic planning to refer to distinct areas of focus or initiatives aimed at achieving a common goal. Example: "The team has identified three lines of effort to enhance our marketing strategy: social media engagement, content creation, and customer outreach."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

13 human-written examples

He went on, "It must be comprehensive, and include close collaboration across multiple lines of effort.

The New Yorker

He approached the seemingly insurmountable problem with characteristic zeal, studying the local culture, establishing systematic "lines of effort," sleeping only four hours a night.

The New Yorker

The United States has made progress in Iraq when its military and diplomatic lines of effort have been coordinated and mutually reinforcing.

The Washington Post

The method outlined encourages planners to appreciate the complexity of the problem space and design meaningful lines of effort based on a deepened appreciation of numerous interdependencies.

Technological Forecasting and Social Change

The new college will hopefully engage many diverse lines of effort, eschewing the hegemony of any singular one with a brilliant charismatic leader, because such persons do hold back the clock, and more visibly so after they pass away.

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

"While it is the coalition's kinetic actions that often receive the most attention, it is the aggregate effect of the coalition's activities across multiple lines of effort that will in the end determine the coalition's success," he said in a speech last month before stepping down as special envoy.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

47 human-written examples

Several of the mayors who announced the effort, including Mitch Landrieu (D) of New Orleans, have been on the front lines of efforts to remove Confederate symbols from public areas.

The Washington Post

With cancer costs only continuing to rise, Sherman and other "financial navigators" across the country have moved to the front lines of efforts to help people survive financially as well as medically.

The Washington Post

Chinomso Nwachuku's work with the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) puts him on the front lines of efforts to fight substance abuse.

University of Chicago

From cancer to the opioid crisis, policymakers and rank-and-file employees at federal agencies are on the front lines of efforts to overcome the challenges to improve healthcare and transform the next generation of AI.

Forbes

Energy producers are on the front lines of efforts to reduce carbon emissions and supporters of progressive ideas like the Green New Deal should consider them partners, not enemies.

Forbes

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "lines of effort", ensure that each line is distinct and contributes uniquely to the overall objective. Clearly define each line to avoid overlap and ensure focused resource allocation.

Common error

Avoid defining "lines of effort" that are not mutually exclusive. Overlapping lines can lead to confusion and inefficient use of resources. Ensure each line addresses a different facet of the overall goal.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "lines of effort" functions as a noun phrase, typically used as a subject, object, or complement in a sentence. It describes distinct areas of strategic focus or coordinated activities aimed at achieving a common goal, as seen in Ludwig's examples.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Science

30%

Formal & Business

20%

Less common in

Academia

10%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "lines of effort" is a noun phrase referring to distinct areas of strategic focus aimed at achieving a common goal. As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase is grammatically correct and commonly used in professional, news, academic, and business contexts. While "lines of effort" is relatively uncommon, it effectively conveys a structured, multi-faceted approach. When using this phrase, it's best to ensure that each "line" is clearly defined and contributes uniquely to the overall objective. Consider alternatives like "areas of focus" or "strategic initiatives" to add variety to your writing and enhance clarity.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

areas of focus

This alternative emphasizes the specific subjects or topics being addressed.

strategic initiatives

This term highlights the planned and deliberate nature of the efforts.

avenues of approach

This phrase suggests different methods or ways to tackle a problem.

courses of action

This alternative focuses on the specific steps taken to achieve a goal.

strategic priorities

This emphasizes the importance and ranking of different efforts.

key objectives

This alternative underscores the main goals that the efforts are intended to achieve.

action plans

This term highlights the detailed planning and steps involved in the efforts.

work streams

This alternative emphasizes the ongoing and continuous nature of the efforts.

project components

This phrase breaks down the overall effort into smaller, manageable parts.

program elements

This alternative emphasizes the structured and organized nature of the efforts within a larger program.

FAQs

How can I use "lines of effort" in a sentence?

You might say, "The project team identified three "lines of effort" to improve customer satisfaction: enhancing product quality, streamlining customer service, and expanding marketing reach."

What are some alternatives to "lines of effort"?

Consider using alternatives such as "areas of focus", "strategic initiatives", or "avenues of approach" depending on the context.

What's the difference between "lines of effort" and "strategic goals"?

"Lines of effort" refer to the specific areas where effort is directed, while "strategic goals" are the overarching objectives you aim to achieve. The "lines of effort" are the means, and the strategic goals are the ends.

When is it appropriate to use the phrase "lines of effort"?

Use "lines of effort" when discussing strategic planning, project management, or military operations where multiple distinct activities are coordinated to achieve a common objective. It's especially useful when you want to emphasize a structured, multi-faceted approach.