obtain leverage

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "obtain leverage" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used in contexts where one seeks to gain an advantage or influence over a situation or person. Example: "In negotiations, it is crucial to obtain leverage to ensure a favorable outcome."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

6 human-written examples

"They obtain leverage on those people, too".

The New Yorker

Republicans shifted the deadline on the debt ceiling principally to obtain leverage over Mr Obama through the sequester automatic, across-the-board spending cuts.

The Economist

Mr. Schiffman complained that the plaintiffs' lawyers have raised the disclosure issue "to obtain leverage to get a settlement by saying that there would be all sorts of negative publicity".

The New York Times

If there is no market segmentation, the buyer group can obtain leverage against the seller by restricting its demand as a whole.

SERIEs

RIM has also said it has developed a software workaround that will permit its systems to function without infringing NTP patents, but some say those claims are merely an attempt to obtain leverage during settlement negotiations.

Forbes

Consolidation is occurring in every sector of health care: hospitals are purchasing physician groups as well as merging with other hospitals to obtain leverage during rate negotiations with health insurance companies.

Huffington Post

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

49 human-written examples

On the next play, Ravens guard Ben Grubbs obtained leverage on Jenkins and forced him down the field.

The New York Times

It also alleged that Russian officials had been "cultivating" Trump as an asset for five years, and had obtained leverage over him, in part by recording videos of him while he engaged in compromising sexual acts, including consorting with Moscow prostitutes who, at his request, urinated on a bed.

The New Yorker

QS: Data – movies don't do a good job obtaining, leveraging it.

TechCrunch

I had to find a money broker then to obtain 90 percent leverage on convertibles, not covered by margin regulations.

Forbes

But Russian oligarchs aren't free; often their lending is directed by the government to obtain geopolitical leverage.

Huffington Post

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When aiming to "obtain leverage", clearly define your objectives and identify the resources or tactics that will give you the most significant advantage in achieving them.

Common error

A common mistake is assuming that leverage comes solely from a position of authority. True leverage often stems from understanding the needs and motivations of others and finding mutually beneficial solutions.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "obtain leverage" functions as a verb phrase, indicating the action of acquiring influence or advantage. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness. Examples show it used in contexts ranging from political negotiations to business strategies.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Science

33%

Formal & Business

17%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "obtain leverage" is a grammatically sound phrase used to describe the act of gaining influence or advantage, as confirmed by Ludwig AI. While not exceedingly common, it appears frequently in news, science, and business contexts. The phrase's neutral to professional register makes it suitable for various communications. To enhance writing, it's crucial to understand the context and source of leverage, avoiding the assumption that it stems solely from authority. Alternatives include "gain influence" and "acquire advantage", depending on the specific nuance desired.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

Gain influence

Focuses on the act of acquiring influence, a component of leverage.

Acquire advantage

Highlights the acquisition of a beneficial position.

Secure an advantage

Emphasizes securing a beneficial position, implying a defensive approach.

Create an advantage

Shifts focus to building or originating a beneficial position.

Develop influence

Focuses on the gradual growth of influence.

Exploit a strength

Involves capitalizing on existing advantages or resources.

Harness resources

Focuses on effectively utilizing available resources for an advantage.

Build momentum

Implies creating a growing advantage through successive actions.

Establish dominance

Suggests a more assertive and comprehensive form of advantage.

Cultivate power

Highlights the gradual development of power or influence.

FAQs

How can I use "obtain leverage" in a sentence?

You can use "obtain leverage" to describe the act of gaining an advantage or influence in a situation, such as "The company aimed to "obtain leverage" in negotiations by securing key partnerships".

What can I say instead of "obtain leverage"?

You can use alternatives like "gain influence", "acquire advantage", or "secure an advantage" depending on the context.

Is it better to "obtain leverage" or "gain leverage"?

Both "obtain leverage" and "gain leverage" are correct and usable. The choice often depends on personal preference, although "gain leverage" might be considered slightly more common in everyday usage.

What is the difference between "obtain leverage" and "exert influence"?

"Obtain leverage" refers to the act of acquiring an advantage or means of influencing, while "exert influence" describes the active use of that advantage to affect a situation or decision.