locked in position

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "locked in position" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe something that is secured or fixed in a specific place or state, often in a mechanical or metaphorical context. Example: "The camera was locked in position to ensure that it captured the perfect shot without any movement."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

14 human-written examples

In memory, the actors are locked in position, unlifelike.

The New Yorker

Each chamber successively locked in position behind the barrel and discharged by pressure on the trigger.

Encyclopedia Britannica

The pressure may be created by a spring or a series of levers locked in position by the wedging action of a conical spool.

Encyclopedia Britannica

But by Saturday evening, the two sides seemed locked in position, with the prime minister making no immediate move to leave power -- a key demand of the opposition -- and the opposition leader reiterating his call for early elections and branding Mr. Papandreou "dangerous for the country".

The New York Times

Flexible multilumen guides which could be locked in position, including a prototype which allowed triangulation, were constructed.

Journal of Gastrointestinal Surgery

You can also choose between brown or black leather, which is magnetically secured to keep your iPad locked in position.

TechCrunch

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

43 human-written examples

In fact, much of the improvement in the ratings comes because automakers have simply made restraints that lock in position.

The New York Times

With the United States and the European Union locked in firm positions, concessions from a variety of nations, many of them prospering, were the key to striking a deal.

The New York Times

A new wet process, denoted as Laser Surface Implanting (LSI), has been developed to synthesize a Copper-Single Wall Carbon NanoTube (Cu-SWCNT) metal nanocomposite by dispersing SWCNTs into molten copper, followed by rapid and non-equilibrium solidification to form the Cu-SWCNT nanocomposite such that dispersed SWCNTs could locked in positions without agglomerating into large clusters.

Carbon

The $100 iShower has a swing-out stand that doesn't lock in position, so it tended to collapse in the slippery tub.

The New York Times

Turn the bowl counter-clockwise as far as it will go, making sure it firmly locks in position.

WikiHow

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing physical objects, ensure that the context clarifies how the object is "locked in position", such as with fasteners, magnets, or other securing mechanisms.

Common error

Avoid using "locked in position" when simply describing something that is still or hasn't moved recently. This phrase implies an active force or mechanism preventing movement, not just a lack of it.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "locked in position" functions primarily as a descriptive element, often modifying a noun to indicate a state of immobility or fixed placement. Ludwig AI indicates correctness.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

32%

Science

32%

Wiki

21%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

9%

Formal & Business

3%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "locked in position" accurately describes something secured and unable to move, both literally and figuratively. Ludwig AI confirms the phrase's correctness, highlighting its versatility across various contexts, from mechanical descriptions to metaphorical standstills. While alternatives such as "secured in place" and "fixed in position" exist, it's important to use the phrase appropriately, avoiding overuse in contexts where simple stillness is implied. With a neutral register and frequent usage in news, science, and wiki sources, "locked in position" remains a valuable and precise expression in English.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

secured in place

Focuses on the act of making something firm and unmovable.

fixed in position

Highlights the immobility and permanence of the placement.

immobilized

Emphasizes the lack of movement or ability to move.

held fast

Implies a strong grip or securement, preventing displacement.

firmly set

Stresses the stability and lack of wobble or give.

anchored

Suggests a deep and unwavering hold, as with a ship's anchor.

unable to budge

Highlights the impossibility of moving something from its current location.

motionless

Focuses solely on the absence of movement.

unyielding

Emphasizes resistance to change or movement.

stationary

Highlights the lack of movement or progression.

FAQs

What does "locked in position" mean?

The phrase "locked in position" means something is secured, fixed, or unable to move from a specific location or state. It implies a mechanism or force preventing movement.

How can I use "locked in position" in a sentence?

You might say, "The safety lever must be "secured in place" to prevent accidental firing" or "The debate seemed "at a standstill", with both sides "locked in position"".

What are some alternatives to "locked in position"?

You can use alternatives like "secured in place", "fixed in position", or "immobilized", depending on the context.

When is it appropriate to use "locked in position" metaphorically?

It is appropriate to use it metaphorically when describing situations or viewpoints that are entrenched and resistant to change, similar to something physically locked. For example: "The negotiations were "at a standstill" with both parties "locked in position"".