secure the seat

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "secure the seat" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to reserving or ensuring a place, often in contexts like transportation, events, or meetings. Example: "To guarantee your attendance at the concert, make sure to secure the seat in advance."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

14 human-written examples

A source in the Uxbridge Conservative Association told The Times Mr Johnson would have to move quickly if he wanted to secure the seat.

BBC

The most surprising part, he said, was the force needed to secure the seat.

The New York Times

While a replacement for Justice Stevens most likely would not shift the ideological balance on the court, it could secure the seat for the liberal faction for years.

The New York Times

In Keighley West, Bradford, the party was beaten in a recent byelection but if it repeats its 1,200 votes it could secure the seat.

The Guardian

To secure the seat for the Republican-turned-Democrat, Mr. Emanuel, the White House chief of staff, wanted to clear the path for Mr. Specter to win his new party's nomination.

The New York Times

Now, the same traveler from Hoboken has to do what New Yorkers have had to do for years -- leave a couple of hours before the flight just in case there's traffic, which there usually is, and in time to secure the seat in case the airline overbooks the flight, which it often does.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

46 human-written examples

Mr Evans said Labour's goals, which include improving jobs, transport and affordable housing, should help secure the seats they need.

BBC

The Shooters and Fishers came within a whisker of securing the seat, after a swing of 13% against the Nationals.

The Guardian

"So we secured the seat belt to land in Mombasa because we thought it was a technical problem but actually it was not a technical problem.

Independent

— Two years ago, Republicans in this traditionally red district west of Chicago winced as a political newcomer rode a wave of Democratic enthusiasm and secured the seat held by J. Dennis Hastert, the long-serving former House speaker who had recently retired.

The New York Times

Sarah Champion secured the seat with 9,866 votes - 46% of those cast.

BBC

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When discussing political races or competitions, use "secure the seat" to convey the idea of winning or ensuring a victory.

Common error

Avoid using "secure the seat" in contexts where a simpler term like "fasten" or "attach" would be more appropriate. This phrase is most effective when referring to gaining or ensuring a position, not merely physical attachment.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "secure the seat" functions primarily as a verb phrase, indicating the action of obtaining or ensuring a position or place. As Ludwig AI suggests, the phrase is grammatically correct and usable.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

70%

Wiki

20%

Formal & Business

5%

Less common in

Science

2%

Social Media

2%

Reference

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "secure the seat" is a versatile verb phrase primarily used to denote the act of obtaining or guaranteeing a position or place, be it in politics, events, or other contexts. According to Ludwig AI, the expression is grammatically sound and applicable in many written communications. While predominantly found in news and media, its neutral register makes it suitable for various informative contents. Remember to use the expression judiciously, applying it where the connotation of 'ensuring' or 'obtaining' a specific position is most relevant.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

lock in the spot

Suggests firmly securing a specific location or opportunity.

reserve the spot

Focuses on reserving a physical location.

assure a place

Stresses the act of making a location or opportunity certain.

guarantee the position

Emphasizes ensuring a role or status.

procure a reservation

Highlights the act of acquiring a booking or reservation.

ensure occupancy

Highlights making certain a place is occupied.

nail down the selection

Focuses on finalizing and securing a choice or selection.

win the election

Specifically relates to achieving victory in an electoral context.

clinch the victory

Implies definitively achieving a win or success.

gain entry

Emphasizes the act of obtaining access or admission.

FAQs

How can I use "secure the seat" in a sentence?

You can use "secure the seat" in sentences like: "The candidate worked hard to secure the seat in the upcoming election", or "Make sure to secure the seat before the performance starts".

What does "secure the seat" mean?

"Secure the seat" can mean to win a position, such as in an election, or to ensure one's place, as in reserving a seat for an event.

What can I say instead of "secure the seat"?

You can use alternatives like "reserve the spot", "guarantee the position", or "win the election" depending on the context.

Is it correct to use "secure the seat" when referring to a political position?

Yes, it is correct. "Secure the seat" is often used in political contexts to describe winning an election or ensuring a political appointment.