show of strength

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "show of strength" is correct and usable in written English.
This phrase is typically used to describe a display of power intended to intimidate or impress. For example: The army's show of strength at the parade sent a clear message to their enemies.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Sport

Politics

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

It was an astonishing show of strength.

The Guardian

"So it's a show of strength.

The New York Times

This was a collective show of strength.

The Guardian - Sport

They might respond with a show of strength.

The Guardian

"We have to make this show of strength".

The Guardian

Some sort of show of strength was inevitable.

The Guardian - Opinion

Weren't my actions a show of strength already?

The New Yorker

It can often be a show of strength.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

But a show of strength had to come before the outstretched hand.

The Guardian - Opinion

Baxter's hand is large, Henry's fractionally larger, but neither man attempts a show of strength.

The New Yorker

In Dunedin's second innings his was brave batting, a show of strength.

The Guardian - Sport

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "show of strength" when you want to emphasize a deliberate display of power or resolve, often intended to impress or intimidate. For example: "The military parade was a clear show of strength."

Common error

Avoid using "show of strength" when you simply mean something indicates underlying power or resilience. Instead, use "sign of strength" in those contexts. For example, instead of "His recovery was a show of strength", say "His recovery was a sign of strength".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "show of strength" functions primarily as a noun phrase. It refers to an event or action that is intended to demonstrate power, resolve, or capability. As Ludwig AI pointed out, it is grammatically correct and widely used.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

70%

Sport

15%

Wiki

5%

Less common in

Formal & Business

3%

Science

2%

Encyclopedias

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "show of strength" is a commonly used and grammatically correct noun phrase that describes a deliberate display of power or resolve. As Ludwig AI confirms, it appears frequently in news and media contexts, often relating to politics, military actions, or sports. When writing, it's important to distinguish it from "sign of strength", which indicates underlying power rather than a specific display. Consider using alternatives such as ""display of power"" or ""demonstration of force"" to vary your language. The phrase carries a neutral tone and is suitable for both formal and informal communication. The phrase should be used when you want to emphasize a deliberate display of power or resolve, often intended to impress or intimidate. For example: "The military parade was a clear "show of strength"".

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

display of power

Focuses more on the inherent power being demonstrated rather than the act of showing it.

demonstration of force

Highlights the use of force as the method of demonstrating strength.

exhibition of might

Emphasizes the impressive and potentially intimidating nature of the strength.

assertion of dominance

Focuses on the intent to establish control or superiority.

act of defiance

Highlights the resistance aspect rather than the power display.

expression of resolve

Emphasizes the firm determination being displayed.

imposing presence

Focuses on the effect created by someone's or something's powerful nature.

military exercise

Specifically refers to a planned and executed demonstration of military capability.

united front

Highlights the solidarity and agreement among a group demonstrating strength.

power play

Implies a strategic maneuver intended to gain an advantage through the use of power.

FAQs

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

You can use "show of strength" to describe an action or event that demonstrates power or resolve. For example: "The protest was a "show of strength" against the new policies."

What's a good alternative to "show of strength"?

Depending on the context, you could use "display of power", "demonstration of force", or "exhibition of might" as alternatives to "show of strength".

Is it correct to say "a show of strength" or "an show of strength"?

It is correct to say "a show of strength". The word "show" begins with a consonant sound, so the indefinite article "a" is appropriate.

What's the difference between "show of strength" and "act of aggression"?

While a "show of strength" can be a demonstration of power, an "act of aggression" implies a hostile or violent action. A "show of strength" may be intended to deter aggression, while an "act of aggression" is an offensive move.