to exert

USAGE SUMMARY

The part of a sentence "to exert" is correct and usable in written English.
It is commonly used as a verb meaning to put forth effort or to apply force or pressure. It can be used in a variety of contexts, such as in describing physical actions, mental or emotional efforts, or influence or control over something. Example: "She had to exert all her strength to lift the heavy box." Example: "He exerted his authority to make sure the project was completed on time."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

One option is to exert private leadership.

The New Yorker

We have to exert pressure gradually".

The Guardian

They are efforts to exert local control.

The New Yorker

Nicholson said it suggested a desire to exert influence.

The Guardian

No one was able to exert a grip.

The Guardian - Books

Another approach is to exert old-fashioned peer pressure.

The New Yorker

America has given him the chance to exert his independence.

The New York Times - Arts

But then the paintings start to exert a certain resonance.

The New York Times - Arts

The party should be able to exert some political power.

The New York Times

Men hurt women in order to exert power over them.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Runaway: she does not have to exert control.

The Guardian - Film

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "to exert", clearly specify what is being exerted (e.g., influence, pressure, effort) to avoid ambiguity.

Common error

While grammatically correct, "to exert" can sound overly formal in casual conversation. Consider using simpler alternatives like "to use" or "to apply" for a more natural tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "to exert" functions as an infinitive verb phrase. It indicates an action of applying or putting forth something, often force, influence, or effort. As Ludwig AI confirms, this phrase is commonly used, as shown by many examples.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

48%

Science

45%

Formal & Business

4%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

1%

Wiki

1%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "to exert" is a versatile infinitive phrase that means to apply or put forth something, typically force, influence, or effort. Ludwig AI confirms its correct usage in written English. While grammatically sound and frequently used, it leans towards a neutral to formal tone. Its frequent appearance in news and scientific contexts, as shown by Ludwig, highlights its broad applicability in describing intentional actions and influences. Remember to be mindful of the intended audience and context when choosing "to exert" over simpler alternatives like "to use" or "to apply".

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

to apply

Focuses on the act of putting something into effect or operation.

to exercise

Implies using a skill, right, or quality.

to wield

Suggests holding and using power or influence effectively.

to bring to bear

Emphasizes the act of directing something towards a specific purpose.

to put forth

Highlights the action of offering or producing something, like effort or energy.

to bring into play

Focuses on actively using something that is available or present.

to put into action

Emphasizes the implementation or activation of a plan or idea.

to make use of

General phrase indicating the utilization of something.

to leverage

Highlights using something to maximum advantage.

to put one's back into

Idiomatic phrase meaning to apply oneself with great effort.

FAQs

How can I use "to exert" in a sentence?

The phrase "to exert" typically precedes a noun that represents what is being applied or put forth. For example, "to exert influence", "to exert pressure", or "to exert effort".

What can I say instead of "to exert"?

You can use alternatives like "to apply", "to exercise", or "to wield" depending on the context.

Is it better to use "to exert influence" or "to have influence"?

"To exert influence" implies an active effort to affect something, while "to have influence" simply indicates the possession of influence. The best choice depends on whether you want to emphasize the action of influencing or the state of having influence.

What is the difference between "to exert" and "to exercise"?

"To exert" implies the application of effort or force, while "to exercise" refers to the use of a skill, right, or quality. You might "to exert pressure" on someone, but you would "to exercise your rights".