solicit business

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "solicit business" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used in contexts where one is seeking to attract customers or clients for a service or product. Example: "The company decided to solicit business from local restaurants by offering special promotional rates."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

Its ts workers cannot solicit business from these cigarette operations.

The New York Times

Mr. Locke is not the only American official trying to solicit business in India.

The New York Times

Korologos acknowledged that Washington lobbyists are scrambling to solicit business in Iraq.

The New Yorker

As of last month, its workers cannot solicit business from these cigarette operations.

The New York Times

Writer apologizes for describing them as designed to solicit business, though that is what they are.

The New Yorker

v. Market research or educational materials that do not solicit business.

Cornell University

Residents say the dealers are smarter now about avoiding arrest, and no longer carry drugs when they solicit business.

The New York Times

Some will say that you cannot solicit business from customers you worked with at your former employer.

The New York Times

But Mr. Cuomo said that he would prefer the firms use only employees and not outside middlemen to solicit business.

The New York Times

The career agent system employs salespersons in offices throughout the country who actively solicit business for MONY.

Harvard University

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

1 human-written examples

Repairmen came door to door, soliciting business.

The New York Times - Books

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "solicit business", ensure your communication clearly articulates the value proposition for potential clients. Highlighting benefits directly increases the effectiveness of your outreach.

Common error

Avoid aggressive or intrusive methods when you "solicit business". Respecting boundaries and providing genuine value builds trust and enhances long-term relationships.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "solicit business" functions as a verb phrase where "solicit" is the verb and "business" is the direct object. It describes the act of actively seeking or requesting commercial opportunities or custom.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

59%

Academia

22%

Formal & Business

19%

Less common in

Wiki

1%

Science

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "solicit business" is a common and grammatically correct way to describe the act of actively seeking commercial opportunities. Ludwig AI confirms its usability across various contexts, especially in News & Media, Academia, and Formal & Business settings. When using this phrase, it's crucial to clearly articulate the value proposition and avoid aggressive tactics. Alternatives include "seek business opportunities" or "attract customers", offering nuanced ways to express the same intent. The phrase is frequently found in authoritative sources like The New York Times and The Economist, reinforcing its reliability and widespread understanding.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

attract customers

Emphasizes the goal of drawing in clientele.

seek business opportunities

Focuses on the opportunities being sought, adding a strategic dimension.

market services

Focuses on promoting services to gain business.

pursue client acquisition

Highlights the process of gaining new clients, often used in a formal context.

develop clientele

Suggests building a base of customers through strategic efforts.

promote offerings

Emphasizes the advertisement of products or services.

drum up trade

An idiomatic alternative, suggesting active efforts to increase commercial activity.

court potential clients

Implies actively trying to win over clients, emphasizing relationship building.

generate leads

Focuses on creating potential customers, a more targeted marketing approach.

canvass for custom

A more formal alternative, implying a detailed and thorough approach to gaining business.

FAQs

How can I rephrase "solicit business" in a professional context?

In a professional setting, you can use phrases like "seek business opportunities", "pursue client acquisition", or "market services".

What is a less formal way to say "solicit business"?

For a more informal tone, consider using phrases like "attract customers" or "generate leads" depending on the specific context.

Is it appropriate to "solicit business" directly?

Direct solicitation can be effective if done respectfully and with a clear value proposition. However, avoid being overly aggressive or intrusive to maintain a professional image.

What's the difference between "solicit business" and "market services"?

"Solicit business" implies a direct request for business, while "market services" focuses on promoting offerings to attract potential clients. The latter is generally broader and less direct.