strike a bargain

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "strike a bargain" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to the act of negotiating or reaching an agreement, typically in a business or transactional context. Example: "After hours of negotiation, we finally managed to strike a bargain that satisfied both parties."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

47 human-written examples

Would the Conservatives strike a bargain with Ukip?

The Guardian - Opinion

By importing Rhett and Link to do the work, they strike a bargain.

The New York Times - Arts

The SNP has recently been suggesting that it could strike a bargain with Labour.

The Guardian - Opinion

Anne de Beaupre in Canada, suggesting a way to strike a bargain with a saint.

The New Yorker

Even before the zero percent offer, Toyota dealers were eager to strike a bargain, Mr. McEleney said.

The New York Times

House Speaker John Boehner, R-Ohio, didn't have enough political muscle to strike a bargain with the president.

Independent

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

12 human-written examples

And, he added, "if the Americans can strike an bargain with the new proprietors, they don't have to leave the place".

The New York Times

What is a "bargainer" or a "challenger?" According to Shelby Steele, a bargainer strikes a bargain with white America in which they say.

Huffington Post

The bank ultimately struck a bargain with its landlord.

The New York Times

But striking a bargain where love is absent or unbalanced is the surest road to misery.

The New York Times

The couple struck a bargain for her to go one day a week.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "strike a bargain", ensure that the context clearly indicates what is being exchanged or agreed upon. Provide specific details to avoid ambiguity.

Common error

Avoid using "strike a bargain" when referring to a simple purchase. This phrase implies negotiation and mutual concessions, not just a straightforward transaction.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "strike a bargain" functions as a verb phrase. It typically describes the act of successfully reaching an agreement through negotiation, implying a process of give-and-take. Ludwig examples illustrate its usage in various contexts, from political negotiations to personal agreements.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

58%

Formal & Business

25%

Wiki

8%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

5%

Science

2%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "strike a bargain" is a common and grammatically correct expression used to describe the act of reaching an agreement through negotiation. Ludwig AI indicates that this phrase is widely used across diverse sources, particularly in news, media, and formal business contexts. It is suitable for both formal and informal communication, though it implies more negotiation than simply "making a deal". When writing, ensure the context clearly defines what's being exchanged. Alternatives include "reach an agreement", "make a deal", and "come to terms". Understanding its nuanced usage can improve clarity and precision in your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

make a deal

A more informal and direct way of expressing the same idea.

reach an agreement

Emphasizes the outcome of the negotiation process.

come to terms

Focuses on the specific conditions or provisions of the agreement.

work out a deal

Focuses on the process of developing the agreement.

close a deal

Highlights the successful finalization of the agreement.

seal a contract

Implies a more formal and legally binding agreement.

broker a compromise

Suggests finding a middle ground between conflicting interests.

hammer out an agreement

Emphasizes the effort and negotiation involved in reaching the deal.

negotiate a settlement

Specifically refers to resolving a dispute or conflict.

forge a consensus

Implies a broader agreement involving multiple parties.

FAQs

How can I use "strike a bargain" in a sentence?

You can use "strike a bargain" to describe reaching an agreement after negotiation, such as, "After hours of discussion, they managed to "strike a bargain" that benefited both parties".

What is a suitable alternative to "strike a bargain"?

Depending on the context, you could use alternatives such as "reach an agreement", "make a deal", or "come to terms".

Is "strike a bargain" formal or informal?

"Strike a bargain" is suitable for both formal and informal contexts, although alternatives like "reach an agreement" might be preferred in more formal settings.

What's the difference between "strike a bargain" and "strike a deal"?

While very similar, ""strike a bargain"" often implies more extensive negotiation than "strike a deal", which can refer to any agreement, even a simple one.