trial of strength

USAGE SUMMARY

"trial of strength" is a correct phrase in written English.
It is often used to describe a situation in which two people or groups let their strength and power be used as a way of competing or settling a dispute. For example: The two sides had reached an impasse and decided to settle their differences through a trial of strength.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Hence the current trial of strength.

The Economist

This is a trial of strength.

The Guardian - Opinion

The trial of strength is still to come.

The Guardian - TV & Radio

Or would there be a disruptive trial of strength?

The New York Times

The alternative is to continue a trial of strength, which everyone loses.

The Guardian

This was a great trial of strength between the British and German air forces.

The Guardian

He will not be getting into a trial of strength with the health secretary, Jeremy Hunt.

The Guardian

When conditions maximized humiliation and confrontation, every interaction escalated into a trial of strength.

The New Yorker

The two countries are locked in a trial of strength over Iran's nuclear ambitions.

The Economist

It became a trial of strength between workers and managers over their right to be represented by a trade union.

The Guardian

Mr. Papandreou faces a trial of strength both with opposition deputies in Parliament and with protesters on the streets.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "trial of strength" to describe situations where the outcome is determined by the relative power or resilience of the involved parties. This is especially useful in political, economic, or military contexts.

Common error

Avoid using "trial of strength" when describing situations that are purely based on skill or luck, instead of inherent power or resources. A sports competition, while involving strength, is more accurately described as a competition of skill.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "trial of strength" functions as a noun phrase that describes a situation or event where the relative power or resilience of opposing forces is tested. Ludwig AI indicates that it is commonly used in various contexts to describe power dynamics.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

78%

Encyclopedias

12%

Formal & Business

3%

Less common in

Science

3%

Reference

2%

Wiki

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "trial of strength" is a common and grammatically correct expression used to describe situations where power or resilience is tested. Ludwig AI confirms its appropriateness in various contexts, especially news and media, encyclopedias and formal business communications. While related to phrases like "power struggle" and "test of will", it uniquely emphasizes a specific event or period of power assessment. To best use this phrase, apply it to scenarios where inherent power dynamics are at play, avoiding its use in contexts purely based on skill or luck.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

contest of power

Directly references the competition for authority or influence.

power struggle

Focuses more directly on the competitive aspect of wielding power.

struggle for dominance

Highlights the ambition to achieve a superior position.

battle of wills

Focuses on the conflict between differing desires or intentions.

test of will

Emphasizes the mental and emotional fortitude required.

power play

Highlights the strategic maneuvering involved in gaining an advantage.

competition of force

Emphasizes the physical or strategic application of power.

showdown

Implies a decisive confrontation or contest.

clash of titans

Suggests a conflict between powerful entities or individuals.

wrestling match

Uses a metaphor of a physical contest to describe the situation.

FAQs

How can I use "trial of strength" in a sentence?

You can use "trial of strength" to describe a situation where two or more parties are testing their power against each other, such as "The negotiations became a "trial of strength" between the unions and the management".

What's the difference between "trial of strength" and "power struggle"?

"Trial of strength" implies a specific event or period where power is tested, while "power struggle" suggests an ongoing competition for influence.

What are some alternatives to "trial of strength"?

Depending on the context, you can use alternatives like "power struggle", "test of will", or "showdown".

In what context is it appropriate to use the phrase "trial of strength"?

The phrase "trial of strength" is appropriate in contexts involving contests of power, such as political negotiations, labor disputes, or military conflicts.