maintaining a stance

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "maintaining a stance" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing the act of holding a particular position or viewpoint on an issue or topic. Example: "In the debate, she was firm in maintaining a stance against the proposed policy changes."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

4 human-written examples

But during the speech, Mr. Bloomberg sat on the side near an exit without applauding, maintaining a stance of political neutrality by keeping his hands in his lap as Mr. Obama went after Senator Hillary Rodham Clinton, the Democrat from New York, and John McCain, a Republican Mr. Bloomberg counts as a friend.

The New York Times

But during the speech, Mr. Bloomberg sat on the side near an exit without applauding, maintaining a stance of political neutrality by keeping his hands in his lap as Mr. Obama went after Senator Hillary Rodham Clinton, the Democrat from New York, and Senator John McCain, a Republican Mr. Bloomberg counts as a friend.

The New York Times

But maintaining a stance – no matter how ludicrous it seems – and defending it with all the energy of a 20-year-old, instead of regurgitating what you think the voter wants to hear, just might.

Vice

The Big Three automakers that fueled Detroit's growth -- Ford, General Motors and Chrysler -- are all maintaining a stance of "public neutrality," according to Rep. John Dingell (D-Mich)., the auto industry's strongest ally in Congress.

Huffington Post

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

56 human-written examples

His opponents, who have maintained a stance they call "no guns, no government," say it does not.

The New York Times

Having maintained a stance of nonviolence through three decades of Mubarak's repression, the Muslim Brotherhood had broken this principle within months of winning the Presidency.

The New Yorker

This standard requires auditors to maintain a stance of neutrality toward their clients, and it further implies that auditors must be perceived by the public as being independent.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Cognitive framing addresses responders' decisions and actions to maintain a stance of process control to maintain robust, nominal operations, or cybernetic adaption to maximize resilience and recovery from degradation.

Procedia Manufacturing

Politicians and the media in Sweden have maintained a stance unique in Europe in shunning the Sweden Democrats, excluding them from political debate and directing fierce criticism at anyone who suggests that the country's asylum policy is a problem.

The Guardian

United maintain a stance that there is no need to comment, even though the BBC was foremost among news organisations insisting contact has been made between Mourinho and the club.

The Guardian - Sport

Mr Suleiman has maintained a stance of strict political neutrality, and has been careful to refrain from any statement that might be construed as critical of Syria or Hizbullah.

The Economist

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "maintaining a stance", ensure the context clearly defines the stance being maintained. This adds clarity and strengthens your writing.

Common error

Avoid overuse of "maintaining a stance" in overly formal or academic writing. While grammatically correct, varied phrasing can enhance readability. Consider using synonyms like "upholding" or "adhering to" where appropriate.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "maintaining a stance" functions as a verbal phrase, often acting as part of a clause within a sentence. It describes the act of upholding or preserving a particular position or viewpoint. As Ludwig AI points out, this usage is considered correct.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Science

30%

Encyclopedias

30%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Reference

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "maintaining a stance" is a grammatically correct and usable expression that describes the act of consistently upholding a specific viewpoint or position. While not exceptionally common, it finds use across varied contexts, particularly in news, scientific, and encyclopedic sources. Ludwig AI confirms its appropriate use. While "maintaining a stance" is appropriate for neutral to formal communication, consider alternatives like "upholding a position" or "adhering to a principle" to enhance readability and stylistic variation.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

upholding a position

Focuses on actively supporting a viewpoint or belief.

holding firm to an opinion

Emphasizes the resolute nature of adhering to a personal belief.

standing by a conviction

Highlights the moral or ethical aspect of maintaining a belief.

adhering to a principle

Implies a commitment to a guiding rule or standard.

keeping to an attitude

Suggests a consistent and unchanging approach or disposition.

preserving a viewpoint

Highlights the act of keeping a particular perspective intact.

retaining an outlook

Emphasizes holding onto a specific way of viewing the world.

sustaining a posture

Focuses on actively supporting a viewpoint or belief.

defending a position

Highlights the act of protecting a viewpoint against opposition.

remaining steadfast in belief

Stresses the unwavering nature of holding a particular faith or conviction.

FAQs

How can I effectively use "maintaining a stance" in a sentence?

Use "maintaining a stance" to describe someone consistently holding a particular viewpoint, such as "The politician is "committed to" maintaining a stance against tax increases".

What are some alternatives to "maintaining a stance"?

You can use alternatives such as "upholding a position", "adhering to a principle", or "standing by a conviction" depending on the specific context.

Is "maintaining a stance" formal or informal?

"Maintaining a stance" is generally considered neutral to formal. For informal contexts, consider using simpler phrases like "sticking to your guns".

What does it mean to say someone is "maintaining a stance"?

It means they are consistently holding a specific viewpoint or position, often in the face of opposition or challenge. For example, a company "might maintain a stance" against unsustainable practices.