strike a pose

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "strike a pose" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when you want to describe a person or group of people, typically in a humorous way, striking or assuming a dramatic pose for a photograph or other image. For example, you might say, "After they finished singing their song, the band struck a pose for the fans to take photos."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

44 human-written examples

"Strike a pose" poses.

The New York Times - Arts

Strike a pose that feels comfortable".

The New Yorker

"Strike a pose or suffer the consequences".

The New York Times

Strike a pose – everyone's doing it.

The Guardian - Arts

Strike a pose, there's nothing to it.

The Guardian - Sport

Vanity Fair caricatures strike a pose on the walls.

The Guardian - Travel

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

16 human-written examples

"Let me model for you," she said, striking a pose.

The New York Times

When she finished and struck a pose, the crowd whooped and cheered.

The New York Times

"You are asking me out?" she said in jest, and struck a pose.

The New Yorker

Jared struck a pose in it for his third-grade class picture.

The New York Times - Sports

She struck a pose in front of Mary and stuck out her hand.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "strike a pose" to playfully suggest someone is assuming a deliberate, often dramatic or theatrical, posture for effect.

Common error

Avoid using "strike a pose" in formal or serious writing where a neutral description of posture is needed. Opt for more straightforward phrasing like "assume a position" or "take a stance".

Linguistic Context

The primary grammatical function of "strike a pose" is as an idiomatic expression acting as a verb phrase. Ludwig AI confirms its usability. It describes the action of assuming a particular position, often in a theatrical or deliberate manner, as seen in the Ludwig examples.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

70%

Wiki

15%

Formal & Business

5%

Less common in

Science

5%

Academia

3%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "strike a pose" is a common and grammatically sound idiomatic expression used to describe the act of deliberately assuming a posture, often for a photograph or to create a specific effect. Ludwig AI confirms that the expression is usable in a written context. It frequently appears in news and media, often with a playful or descriptive tone. While versatile, it's best to avoid using "strike a pose" in highly formal or serious contexts, opting instead for more neutral alternatives such as "assume a position" or "adopt a stance". It is generally well-understood and widely used, making it a valuable addition to one's vocabulary.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

pose for the camera

Specifically refers to positioning oneself for a photograph, removing any ambiguity.

assume a pose

Focuses on the action of taking on a specific posture, omitting the element of impact or suddenness implied in "strike".

strike a figure

Highlights the visual impression created by the pose, often used in theatrical or dramatic contexts.

adopt a stance

Emphasizes the physical positioning and attitude conveyed, suitable in broader contexts beyond just photographic poses.

affect a posture

Highlights the artificial or contrived nature of the pose.

take a posture

A more formal alternative, highlighting the manner in which someone holds their body.

get into position

Focuses on the act of moving into a specific arrangement, such as for a photo or performance.

make a show

Shifts the focus to the performative aspect of posing, often implying an element of display or pretense.

put on an act

Suggests a deliberate performance or pretense, applicable when the pose is insincere.

ham it up

Implies exaggerating a pose or expression for comedic effect.

FAQs

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

You can use "strike a pose" to describe someone assuming a dramatic or theatrical posture, often for a photograph or for effect. For example, "The model "struck a pose" for the photographer."

What does it mean to "strike a pose"?

To "strike a pose" means to assume a particular position, often in a deliberate or theatrical way, usually for a photograph or to create a certain impression. It often implies a temporary and somewhat artificial posture.

Are there any alternatives to "strike a pose"?

Yes, depending on the context, you could use alternatives such as "assume a pose", "adopt a stance", or "pose for the camera".

Is it grammatically correct to say "strike a pose"?

Yes, "strike a pose" is a grammatically correct and commonly used idiomatic expression. The verb "strike" is used here to mean 'assume' or 'take on quickly and deliberately'.