to assert dominance

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "to assert dominance" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used in contexts discussing power dynamics, social interactions, or competitive situations where one individual or group seeks to establish control or superiority over another. Example: "In the animal kingdom, many species engage in displays of aggression to assert dominance over their rivals."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

27 human-written examples

Hopes for civilian leadership fade as the army uses the threat of terrorism to assert dominance.

The New York Times

C. A handshake where both parties increasingly tighten their grip in order to assert dominance.

The Washington Post

Spreadeagled poses in humans and animals have always been used to assert dominance, and are most often displayed by men.

Independent

After 1 hour 5 minutes of wrestling to assert dominance in the first set, Nadal had won the tie breaker easily.

The New York Times

Men reported using violence to assert dominance, correct perceived transgressions and lack of obedience, and maintain their public image of being in control of the household and family.

The Guardian

"There is a strict hierarchy, in which one way to assert dominance is through sexual violence and women are at the bottom of the totem pole.

The Guardian

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

33 human-written examples

Or is it the competitiveness of the athlete: the desire to win and assert dominance over our peers and rivals?

The Guardian - Tech

I became aware of the different kinds of ways he used his age to control me or assert dominance of me and ended the engagement.

Vice

This behavior resembles pre-copulatory behaviors between male and female sharks, and in both cases the biting and holding of the pectoral fin has been speculated to relate to one shark asserting dominance over the other.

Wikipedia

Before Stewart began to assert his dominance, the contest was Dale Earnhardt Jr.'s to lose.

The New York Times

Having squandered a fortune trying to assert its dominance, union with the NBA became an inevitability.

The Guardian - Sport

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "to assert dominance", ensure the context clearly indicates the area or aspect over which dominance is being established.

Common error

Avoid using "to assert dominance" in casual conversation or informal writing, as it can sound overly formal or aggressive. Choose simpler alternatives like "to take charge" or "to lead" in such situations.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "to assert dominance" functions as an infinitive phrase expressing purpose. It typically follows a verb, indicating the reason or aim behind an action. Ludwig AI confirms its correct usage.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Wiki

25%

Science

15%

Less common in

Formal & Business

10%

Academia

5%

Reference

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "to assert dominance" is a grammatically correct and frequently used expression indicating an intent to establish control or superiority. Ludwig AI confirms its validity, highlighting its common occurrence across various contexts such as news, science, and general discussions. While generally neutral to formal in register, it is advisable to use simpler alternatives in casual conversation. Understanding its function and communicative purpose allows for precise and effective use in writing and speech.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

to reassert dominance

Implies a restoration of a previously held dominant position.

to exert dominance

Focuses on the active use of power to maintain control.

to confirm dominance

Highlights the act of solidifying an already existing dominant position.

to assert supremacy

Emphasizes the highest level of dominance and authority.

to proclaim dominance

Focuses more on publicly declaring dominance rather than the act of achieving it.

to assert primacy

Highlights being first or foremost as a basis for dominance.

to assert hegemony

Refers to political, economic, or cultural dominance by one group over others.

to assert mastery

Emphasizes skill and expertise as a means of establishing dominance.

to assert leadership

Focuses on guiding and influencing others as a form of dominance.

to suggest dominance

Indicates a more subtle or indirect attempt to convey dominance.

FAQs

How can I use "to assert dominance" in a sentence?

Use "to assert dominance" to describe actions taken to establish control or superiority, such as "The company launched a new marketing campaign "to assert dominance" in the market."

What are some alternatives to "to assert dominance"?

Alternatives include "to establish control", "to exert influence", or "to take the lead" depending on the specific context.

Is it appropriate to use "to assert dominance" in formal writing?

Yes, "to assert dominance" is suitable for formal writing, especially when discussing power dynamics, strategic actions, or competitive environments.

What's the difference between "to assert dominance" and "to demonstrate strength"?

"To assert dominance" implies an effort to establish a hierarchy or control, whereas "to demonstrate strength" focuses on displaying power or resilience without necessarily seeking to control others.