show of force

USAGE SUMMARY

"show of force" is correct and usable in written English.
It is often used to refer to a demonstration of military power or authority, either to intimidate or to show strength. For example: The nation responded to the provocation with a show of force, deploying military forces to the region.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

They were making "a show of force".

The New Yorker

A big show of force is likely.

The Economist

A community show of force".

The Guardian

"This was a show of force".

The New York Times

It was a show of force.

The Guardian - Opinion

But the real show of force was yet to come.

The New York Times

"It is a serious show of force," Mr. St.

The New York Times - Arts

The government panicked, staging a concerted show of force nationwide.

The New York Times

"It was an important show of force," Ms. Brown said.

The New York Times

The show of force initially bolstered Italian and Spanish bonds.

The New York Times

Only 11 officers were left, hardly a show of force.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "show of force" when you want to emphasize a deliberate display of power intended to impress or intimidate. It's particularly effective in describing military or political actions.

Common error

Don't confuse a simple display of presence with a "show of force". The latter implies a calculated demonstration intended to convey strength or deter opposition, not just being there.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "show of force" functions as a noun phrase, typically used as the object of a verb or the subject of a clause. It describes an action or event that demonstrates power or authority. Ludwig provides numerous examples where the phrase is used in this way.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

98%

Wiki

1%

Science

1%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "show of force" is a commonly used noun phrase that refers to a deliberate display of power, usually intended to intimidate or impress. As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase is grammatically correct and sees frequent use in news and media. While versatile, it's important to ensure the context warrants the sense of a calculated demonstration of power, rather than just a passive presence. Semantically related alternatives include "display of power" and "demonstration of strength". The phrase maintains a neutral tone suitable for both formal and informal communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

display of power

Emphasizes the overt exhibition of control or dominance.

demonstration of strength

Focuses on the act of proving one's power or capability.

exhibition of authority

Highlights the manifestation of official or recognized power.

imposition of control

Suggests a forceful establishment of dominance over a situation or group.

application of pressure

Implies the use of influence or coercion to achieve a desired outcome.

exercise of influence

Focuses on the active use of persuasive or controlling power.

assertion of dominance

Highlights the act of declaring and enforcing one's superior position.

military parade

Refers specifically to a formal display of military personnel and equipment.

power play

Suggests a strategic maneuver intended to gain or maintain power.

forceful intervention

Indicates a direct and often physical involvement to alter a situation.

FAQs

How can I use "show of force" in a sentence?

You can use "show of force" to describe situations where power is being demonstrated, like: "The government responded to the protests with a "show of force", deploying hundreds of troops".

What is an alternative to "show of force"?

Alternatives to "show of force" include "display of power", "demonstration of strength", or "exhibition of authority" depending on the specific context.

Is "show of force" a formal or informal expression?

"Show of force" is generally considered a neutral expression suitable for both formal and informal contexts, though it is frequently used in news and media reporting.

What is the difference between "show of force" and "use of force"?

"Show of force" refers to a demonstration of power intended to deter or intimidate, while "use of force" refers to the actual application of power, often involving physical action.