obtain traction

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "obtain traction" is correct and usable in written English.
It is typically used to describe gaining support, popularity, or momentum for an idea, project, or initiative. Example: "The new marketing strategy is starting to obtain traction among our target audience, leading to increased sales."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

3 human-written examples

Using this technique, we were able to obtain traction forces at the epithelium-matrix interface, and to resolve and quantify patterns of mechanical stress throughout the surrounding matrix.

Biophysical Journal

Horwitz says he's curious whether one or more molecules acts as a clutch that decides whether the focal adhesions grab on to their surroundings to obtain traction or slide freely.

Science Magazine

Within William's construct of "procedural secularism," Christian ethical perspectives should simply be one of a number of ethical voices seeking to obtain traction in the public square.

Huffington Post

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

57 human-written examples

These results indicate that the parameters obtained from the device could be useful in obtaining traction related parameters of a soil-tractive device interaction process.

Journal of Terramechanics

This paper utilizes the super-twisting algorithm (STA) to obtain a traction controller for road vehicles.

Control Engineering Practice

The measured strains are input to an inverse parametric numerical model to obtain the traction separation relation due to bridging.

International Journal of Solids and Structures

However, in relation to his view on what enough traction is, he goes on to say; "In sum, there are no hard-and-fast rules, but when an investor suggests that you obtain more traction it's because they still need to be convinced that your customers are going to adopt en masse".

TechCrunch

Keeping it simple is necessary because a simple concept can obtain political traction among higher-level decision-makers.

Global health, science and practice

Keeping it simple is necessary because a simple concept can obtain political traction among higher-level decision-makers, whereas overly complicated proposals usually get nowhere.

Global health, science and practice

He broke with tradition by placing the engine in front of the driver rather than under him, thereby obtaining better traction for the steering (front) wheels.

Encyclopedia Britannica

If so, Impress would find it difficult to obtain the necessary traction to be a viable regulator.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "obtain traction", ensure that the subject trying to obtain traction is clearly defined. This clarifies what is gaining support or momentum.

Common error

Avoid using "obtain traction" when referring to physical grip or friction; this phrase primarily describes gaining support or momentum for ideas or initiatives.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "obtain traction" functions as a verb phrase indicating the action of gaining support, momentum, or influence. Ludwig examples show it used in both scientific and general contexts.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

Science

66%

News & Media

33%

Formal & Business

0%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "obtain traction" is a grammatically sound verb phrase used to describe gaining support, momentum, or influence. Ludwig AI identifies it as correct and usable in written English. It's most frequently encountered in scientific and news-related contexts. While the phrase is relatively infrequent, understanding its proper usage and potential alternatives like "gain momentum" or "achieve support" can enhance clarity and impact in your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

gain momentum

Focuses on the speed of progress rather than initial attainment.

achieve support

Emphasizes gaining backing from others.

build influence

Highlights the development of persuasive power.

garner support

Similar to 'achieve support' but suggests a more active effort in collecting endorsements.

secure backing

Focuses on obtaining formal approval or resources.

get established

Implies a longer-term process of becoming recognized and accepted.

foster acceptance

Emphasizes the nurturing of a positive reception.

win approval

Highlights the act of gaining formal agreement or consent.

cultivate interest

Focuses on actively developing curiosity or engagement.

generate enthusiasm

Emphasizes the creation of positive excitement.

FAQs

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

You can use "obtain traction" to describe gaining support or momentum for an idea, project, or initiative. For example, "The new marketing strategy is starting to "obtain traction" among our target audience, leading to increased sales."

What are some alternatives to "obtain traction"?

Alternatives to "obtain traction" include "gain momentum", "achieve support", or "build influence", depending on the specific context.

Is it appropriate to use "obtain traction" in formal writing?

Yes, "obtain traction" is suitable for formal writing, particularly in business, academic, and scientific contexts, where the concept of gaining support or momentum is relevant.

What does it mean when an investor suggests you "obtain more traction"?

When an investor suggests you "obtain more traction", it typically means they want to see more evidence that customers are adopting your product or service on a large scale. They need to be convinced of its potential for widespread success.