the initial strike

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "the initial strike" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used in contexts discussing the first action taken in a series of events, particularly in military, sports, or competitive scenarios. Example: "The initial strike by the team set the tone for the rest of the match."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

17 human-written examples

MPs still believe a formal leadership challenge remains unlikely, as no one is prepared to make the initial strike.

The Guardian

The head of the military wing of Ḥamās, Ahmed Said Khalil al-Jabari, was killed in the initial strike.

Encyclopedia Britannica

The head of the ʿIzz al-Dīn al-Qassām Forces, Ahmed Said Khalil al-Jabari, was killed in the initial strike.

Encyclopedia Britannica

A resident of Miram Shah, the capital of North Waziristan, said by telephone that the initial strike occurred in the village of Sanzalai, in a mountainous region about 22 miles west.

The New York Times

Subsequently, Mr. Emmerson angered American officials by suggesting that some "double tap" drone attacks, involving a second missile attack on a target, could be described as war crimes because they had been reported in some instances as having killed mourners at funerals for people killed in the initial strike, or tribal elders meeting at the target sites.

The New York Times

Within seconds of the initial strike, computer systems across the country fail.

Forbes

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

43 human-written examples

He supported the initial strikes on Afghanistan, albeit with trepidation.

The New Yorker

The disruptions on Sunday resulted from the extensive coverage of the initial strikes against Afghanistan by the United States and Britain.

The New York Times

Earlier Monday, General Jan, the commander, had lauded the initial strikes and said they needed to continue.

The New York Times

After the initial strikes it is likely there will be a pause as the RAF identify further Isis targets for attack.

The Guardian

4. The article reported that Secretary of State Collin Powell is expected to visit India and Pakistan following the initial strikes on Afghanistan "to keep things balanced between them".

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "the initial strike", ensure that the context clearly indicates what is being struck or attacked, as the phrase itself only denotes the beginning of an action, not the target.

Common error

Avoid using "the initial strike" repetitively within a single text if other more descriptive terms could provide better clarity or detail about the specific type of action being described.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "the initial strike" functions primarily as a noun phrase, acting as a subject or object in a sentence. It refers to the first action in a sequence, often in military or competitive contexts. Ludwig AI confirms its correct and usable nature in English.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

55%

Science

20%

Encyclopedias

15%

Less common in

Wiki

5%

Formal & Business

3%

Academia

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "the initial strike" is a common and grammatically sound noun phrase used to denote the beginning of an action, particularly in military or competitive scenarios. According to Ludwig, the phrase is correct and usable in written English. Predominantly found in news and media, science, and encyclopedic sources, the phrase maintains a neutral to professional register. For alternative expressions, consider phrases like "the first offensive" or "the opening assault". Ensure clarity in usage by specifying the target of the action. Avoid overuse by varying your language with other descriptive terms to maintain clarity and interest.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

the very first strike

Adds emphasis to the order of the strike.

the first offensive

Replaces "strike" with a more general term for an attack.

the opening assault

Emphasizes the beginning nature of the attack.

the primary assault

Focuses on the main and first attack.

the original offensive

Highlights the originality or initial nature of an offensive.

the preliminary attack

Highlights the preparatory nature of the strike.

the lead attack

Highlights that the strike is the leading action.

the inaugural blow

Offers a more figurative and impactful way to describe the first action.

the opening bombardment

More specific if it is an air strike/artillery fire.

the starting hit

A more informal way to describe the first impact or attack.

FAQs

How can I use "the initial strike" in a sentence?

You can use "the initial strike" to describe the first action in a series of events, such as "the initial strike caught the enemy off guard" or "the initial strike was a success".

What are some alternatives to "the initial strike"?

Alternatives include "the first offensive", "the opening assault", or "the preliminary attack", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is "initial strike" formal or informal?

"Initial strike" is generally considered a neutral term, suitable for both formal and informal contexts. However, the surrounding language and specific use case will further determine the overall tone.

What's the difference between "the initial strike" and "the first strike"?

While both phrases refer to the first action, "the initial strike" emphasizes the beginning of a series of actions, whereas "the first strike" can also imply a preemptive action.