to flex

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "to flex" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used in contexts where someone is showing off or demonstrating their abilities, skills, or possessions, often in a boastful manner. Example: "He likes to flex his new car whenever he drives through the neighborhood."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

57 human-written examples

His muscles start to flex.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Allow the patient to flex their independence.

Independent

Her knees seemed not to flex.

The New York Times - Magazine

They are determined to flex that newlyacquired muscle.

The Guardian

With unemployment low, unions are starting to flex their muscles.

The Guardian - Business

Look, I don't walk past the mirror just to flex.

The New York Times - Magazine

"No, I don't want to flex on him".

The New Yorker

He has also regained the ability to flex his feet.

The New York Times - Sports

"Women have to learn to flex their political muscles.

The Guardian

It calls on acting muscles he's rarely had to flex.

The Guardian - Film

He has been known to flex his economic muscle.

The New York Times - Arts

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "to flex" when you want to convey the idea of demonstrating strength, power, or adaptability in a particular situation. It's suitable for describing both physical actions (like flexing muscles) and metaphorical actions (like flexing political power).

Common error

Avoid using "to flex" too frequently in formal or academic writing. While it's widely understood, more precise verbs like "demonstrate", "exhibit", or "exert" can enhance clarity and professionalism.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "to flex" primarily functions as an infinitive verb phrase. It's often used to describe the act of bending something or tightening muscles, as well as metaphorically indicating the exertion of power or influence. As Ludwig AI highlights, its usage is grammatically correct and versatile.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

75%

Encyclopedias

15%

Formal & Business

5%

Less common in

Science

2%

Reference

2%

Wiki

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "to flex" functions as an infinitive verb phrase with multiple applications, ranging from describing physical actions to metaphorical displays of power. It is grammatically sound and broadly accepted, as indicated by Ludwig AI. While its usage is very common, primarily in news and media, more formal contexts might benefit from more precise synonyms. Understanding these nuances enables effective communication across various settings.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

to demonstrate

Focuses on showcasing capabilities or qualities.

to showcase

Highlights the act of presenting something in an attractive or favorable way.

to exhibit

Highlights the act of displaying a particular attribute or skill.

to display

Focuses on the act of making something visible or apparent.

to flaunt

Suggests a bold and often ostentatious display.

to wield

Emphasizes the application and control of power or influence.

to exert

Implies the active use of strength or authority.

to put on display

Emphasizes showing off something.

to bring to bear

Focuses on applying influence or power in a particular situation.

to mobilize

Highlights the act of preparing resources or forces for action.

FAQs

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

You can use "to flex" to describe physical actions, such as "He went "to the gym" "to flex" his muscles". It can also be used metaphorically, like "The company decided "to flex" its financial muscle by acquiring a smaller competitor".

What's a good alternative to "to flex"?

Depending on the context, you could use alternatives such as "to demonstrate", "to exhibit", or "to wield". For example, instead of saying "He wanted "to flex" his knowledge", you could say "He wanted "to demonstrate" his knowledge".

Is it appropriate to use "to flex" in formal writing?

While "to flex" is widely understood, it might be more suitable for informal or general contexts. In formal writing, consider using more precise alternatives like "to exert", "to utilize" or "to demonstrate" to maintain a professional tone.

When should I use "to flex" literally versus metaphorically?

Use "to flex" literally when referring to the physical action of bending or tightening muscles. Use it metaphorically when referring to the demonstration of power, skill, or influence in a non-physical sense. For example: the literal sense could be "The doctor asked him "to flex" his arm" and the metaphorical sense could be "The company used the event "to flex" its market dominance".