through sheer willpower

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "through sheer willpower" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe achieving something solely by determination and mental strength, often in challenging situations. Example: "She completed the marathon through sheer willpower, pushing herself beyond her limits."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

17 human-written examples

"He cultivated it through sheer willpower".

The New York Times

"He rose from an obscure corporal to the leader of his country through sheer willpower".

The New York Times

He's looking short on form again but getting his runs through sheer willpower.

The Guardian - Sport

I was supposed to defy the statistics and beat this disease through sheer willpower.

The New Yorker

He could persevere, sometimes through sheer willpower, through three World Cups and 115 caps, a record for an English outfield player.

The New York Times - Sports

It is as if they had been shoved into someone else's custom-tailored suits and then asked to grow or shrink into the clothes through sheer willpower.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

43 human-written examples

Fortunately for Andrew and Mia, both their stories end in self-awareness and recovery, whether through intervention or sheer willpower, while others continue to languish in silence.

Huffington Post

Through innate charm and sheer willpower, the actress infuses a cardboard character with enough dimensions to sustain viewer interest.

The New York Times

Currently kite-skiing through the unforgiving, icy terrain of Antarctica, I have maintained a climate neutral expedition through a combination of excellent planning and sheer willpower.

Huffington Post

She makes music that's haunted, but somehow, through sheer stoic willpower, serene.

The New York Times - Arts

But sheer willpower has not been enough.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "through sheer willpower" when you want to emphasize that someone achieved something difficult primarily through their mental strength and determination, rather than external factors or inherent talent.

Common error

Avoid using "through sheer willpower" as a simplistic explanation for complex achievements. Acknowledge other contributing factors, such as support systems, resources, and opportunities, which often play a crucial role alongside personal determination.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "through sheer willpower" functions as a prepositional phrase, modifying a verb or noun to describe the means by which an action is accomplished or a state is achieved. It emphasizes the role of strong determination and mental strength. Ludwig confirms its proper usage in various contexts.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

70%

Wiki

15%

Science

15%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "through sheer willpower" is a grammatically correct and commonly used prepositional phrase that emphasizes the power of determination in achieving a goal. Ludwig's analysis shows it’s most frequently found in News & Media, describing scenarios where individuals overcome challenges primarily through mental fortitude. While a powerful concept, it is crucial to avoid oversimplifying achievements and acknowledge other contributing factors. Understanding its nuances and usage, as affirmed by Ludwig AI, can enhance the clarity and impact of your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

by force of will

Focuses more on the strength of will as the primary driver.

through sheer determination

Emphasizes resoluteness and a firm decision to achieve something.

by dint of effort

Highlights the hard work and exertion involved.

through persistent effort

Stresses the continuous and unwavering nature of the effort.

by sheer grit

Implies courage and resolve in the face of adversity.

through unwavering resolve

Highlights steadfastness and commitment.

with unyielding tenacity

Emphasizes persistence and refusal to give up.

through sheer force of character

Attributes success to strong moral qualities and resilience.

by means of intense dedication

Focuses on the commitment and focus required.

through sheer personal drive

Highlights individual ambition and motivation.

FAQs

How can I use "through sheer willpower" in a sentence?

You can use "through sheer willpower" to describe someone overcoming obstacles or achieving goals primarily by their own mental strength and determination. For example: "She completed the difficult task "through sheer willpower"".

What phrases are similar to "through sheer willpower"?

Similar phrases include "by force of will", "through sheer determination", or "by dint of effort", each emphasizing different aspects of effort and resolve.

Is it correct to say someone achieved something "through sheer willpower"?

Yes, it's grammatically correct. The phrase "through sheer willpower" accurately describes achieving something due to strong personal determination and mental strength.

What's the difference between "through sheer willpower" and "through hard work"?

"Through sheer willpower" emphasizes mental fortitude and determination, while "through hard work" highlights physical or sustained effort. One might complete a challenging mental task "through sheer willpower", while building a house requires "through hard work".