overwhelming force

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "overwhelming force" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
This phrase will usually be used to describe a situation where a person or group has an extreme amount of power or strength, and will most likely be used in a figurative sense. For example: The government's overwhelming force would ensure that all protestors complied with the new laws.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

55 human-written examples

We're using overwhelming force".

The New Yorker

No. 2, we should use overwhelming force.

The New Yorker

It was a Colin Powell overwhelming force approach".

The New York Times

"They ran away, confronted with overwhelming force".

The New Yorker

Security forces kept overwhelming force on their side.

The Economist

"It was just an overwhelming force," she said.

The New York Times

Security forces had overwhelming force on their side.

The Economist

Demonstrators, meanwhile, have persisted despite the arrests and overwhelming force.

The New York Times

The campaign was built on the assumption of overwhelming force.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

2 human-written examples

The Taliban has to be defeated with overwhelming force, exercised by the Pakistan Army.

The New York Times

That means, he said, go to war only with overwhelming force to quickly finish it.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

In debates or negotiations, avoid hyperbolic language. Use "overwhelming force" carefully to describe an argument or evidence that is exceptionally compelling, as overuse can dilute its impact.

Common error

Avoid using "overwhelming force" to describe minor advantages or slightly stronger arguments. Reserve it for situations where the power or strength is truly disproportionate and notably impactful.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "overwhelming force" primarily functions as a noun phrase, where "overwhelming" acts as an adjective modifying the noun "force". Ludwig AI confirms it is used to describe situations with extreme power or strength.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

78%

Science

11%

Formal & Business

6%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

1%

Wiki

1%

Reference

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "overwhelming force" is a commonly used and grammatically correct noun phrase that describes a situation characterized by immense power or strength. As Ludwig AI points out, its use is not limited to literal physical force; it can also be applied metaphorically. Predominantly found in news and media, "overwhelming force" serves to emphasize the scale and impact of the power being described. When using this phrase, consider the context and ensure that the level of power or strength being described is truly significant to avoid hyperbole.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

irresistible power

Replaces the noun "force" with "power" emphasizing the inability to withstand it.

unmatchable strength

Substitutes "force" with "strength" highlighting the quality of being physically or morally strong and impossible to defeat.

crushing might

Replaces "force" with "might", suggesting a greater degree of power and dominance.

unstoppable momentum

Focuses on the relentless and continuous nature of the force or power.

overpowering influence

Shifts the context from physical strength to the ability to affect someone's decisions or actions.

supreme command

Implies absolute control and authority, rather than direct physical force.

total dominance

Highlights the state of having complete control over someone or something.

decisive advantage

Emphasizes the benefit gained from possessing superior strength or power.

unassailable position

Focuses on the secure and impregnable nature of a situation due to superior force or power.

impregnable defense

Highlights the strength and resilience in resisting an attack, owing to significant defensive capabilities.

FAQs

How is "overwhelming force" typically used in a sentence?

Typically, "overwhelming force" describes a situation where one party possesses significantly more power or resources than another. For example, "The army responded with "overwhelming force", quickly suppressing the rebellion".

What are some alternatives to using "overwhelming force"?

Depending on the context, you could use alternatives like "irresistible power", "crushing might", or "unmatchable strength" to convey a similar meaning.

Is it appropriate to use "overwhelming force" in non-military contexts?

Yes, "overwhelming force" can be used metaphorically in non-military contexts to describe a situation with a huge amount of advantage. However, it should be used carefully to avoid hyperbole or misrepresentation.

What is the difference between "overwhelming force" and "excessive force"?

"Overwhelming force" generally refers to a large, decisive application of power, while "excessive force" implies a use of power that is disproportionate and unjustified for the situation.