to secure a position

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase 'to secure a position' is correct and can be used in written English.
You can use it when you are talking about obtaining a job or a role in a company or organization. For example: She applied to several companies in hopes of securing a position as a senior accountant.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

52 human-written examples

He arrived in Dover at nine years old, after his mother had managed to secure a position as a housemaid.

Independent

He frankly says that he cannot see any objection to telling these lies in order to secure a position.

The New Yorker

Tim is now looking to secure a position in a media organisation where I can develop my current skill set.

The Guardian

After obtaining their degree they must pass an eight-hour state examination and then begin the interview process to secure a position as a school administrator.

The New York Times

Looking to secure a position in a media organisation, where I can bring immediate and strategic value and develop current skillset further.

The Guardian

Mr. Newell traded on his newly minted movie credentials to secure a position with an as-yet-unnamed casino in Las Vegas.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

8 human-written examples

Plus, they'll put you one step closer to securing a position you'll love.

Forbes

"I want to secure a Champions League position and the further we are from fifth place, then we can begin to think about other things.

BBC

In Ireland the position is just as challenging, with around 600 graduate teachers each year failing to secure a teaching position.

BBC

"It just may take longer to secure a permanent position".

The New York Times

Lewis left the Times after a failure to secure a staff position at the paper.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When writing a resume or cover letter, use "to secure a position" to clearly express your goal of obtaining employment. It's professional and easily understood.

Common error

Avoid using "to secure a position" in very casual conversations. Opt for simpler phrases like "get a job" or "find work" in informal settings.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "to secure a position" functions as an infinitive phrase expressing purpose. It clarifies the intention behind an action, such as applying for jobs or networking. As Ludwig AI confirms, this phrase is grammatically correct and commonly used.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Academia

30%

Science

15%

Less common in

Formal & Business

10%

Wiki

3%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "to secure a position" is a grammatically sound and commonly used expression for conveying the aim of obtaining employment or a specific role. As Ludwig AI indicates, this phrase is considered correct for use in written English. Its use is prevalent across news, academic, and professional contexts. While versatile, it's important to consider the level of formality when choosing between "to secure a position" and simpler alternatives such as "get a job". Understanding these nuances will enable you to effectively communicate your professional aspirations.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

to obtain a post

Replaces 'secure' with 'obtain' and 'position' with 'post', offering a slightly more formal tone.

to get hired

A simple and direct way of saying someone was chosen for a job.

to land a job

Uses a more informal and direct verb ('land') to convey the act of successfully getting a job.

to gain employment

Emphasizes the act of gaining employment, highlighting the state of being employed.

to attain a role

Focuses on acquiring a specific role or function within an organization.

to take up a post

Focuses on the action of commencing work in a new position.

to fill a vacancy

Highlights the act of occupying an existing open position.

to acquire a placement

Suggests a more structured or temporary job arrangement.

to win a spot

Implies competition and success in getting a desired position.

to be appointed to

Suggests a formal selection process, often for higher-level positions.

FAQs

How can I use "to secure a position" in a sentence?

You can use "to secure a position" when describing the act of obtaining a job or role. For example, "She is actively networking "to secure a position" in the marketing department."

What are some alternatives to "to secure a position"?

Alternatives include "to obtain a post", "to land a job", or "to gain employment", depending on the desired level of formality and the specific context.

Is it better to say "secure a position" or "get a position"?

"Secure a position" is generally considered more formal and professional than "get a position". "Get a position" is perfectly acceptable in less formal contexts.

What does it mean "to secure a position" in a negotiation?

In negotiations, "to secure a position" means to achieve a favorable outcome or agreement that ensures your interests are protected or advanced. It could involve obtaining specific terms, rights, or advantages.