wield

USAGE SUMMARY

'wield' is a valid and usable word in written English.
It is a transitive verb meaning to hold or use (a tool, weapon, influence, or authority) in a skilled or forceful way. Example sentence: The new president wielded her executive authority to pass sweeping reforms.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Republicans failed in their latest attempt to wield the threat of a partial government shutdown as a weapon of protest against Barack Obama's immigration policies on Monday, with Democrats and the White House increasingly confident they have the upper-hand in the showdown.

The Guardian

If Scotland does leave the UK, Waters points out that the English population will form more than 90% of the remainder of the union, making it harder than ever for Wales and Northern Ireland to wield influence.

The Guardian

Pietersen has met his end of the bargain, this week's huge innings against Leicestershire at The Oval demonstrating that even in the autumn of his career he remains one of the most destructive players to wield the willow.

The Guardian - Sport

The masses now realise the tremendous might they can wield when they act collectively.

The Guardian - Opinion

The truth: They'd be perfect for the next New Band of the Day night – AND they don't wield handguns.

The Guardian - Music

As a democrat, I am opposed to a queen and other royals who wield great public influence in spite of never having been elected.

The Guardian - Opinion

Even Kenny's Fine Gael, a party with deep roots in rural Catholic Ireland, had lost its fear of the men (they are always men!) who wear red cabs and wield crosiers.

The Guardian

The discipline and culture of Indian bureaucracy is such that if these men stay on they will continue to wield power and would not be treated as damaged goods by the rest of the government.

The Guardian

Managers wield the ultimate power of being able to offer much needed hours of work or take them away.

The Guardian

You will be handed a pair of scissors to wield as you can fill your bag with produce for the road.

The Guardian - Travel

The electoral system works in such a way that those who live in the key marginals wield the political power, and we are already seeing the Labour party shift further to the right to appeal to the "industrial heartlands".

The Guardian - Opinion

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing abstract concepts like influence or power, pair "wield" with adverbs like 'effectively' or 'strategically' to emphasize the manner of control. For example: "They wield power effectively."

Common error

Avoid using "wield" when the subject doesn't have direct control or skillful management of the object. "Possess" or "have" may be more appropriate if control isn't the focus.

Linguistic Context

The verb "wield" primarily functions as a transitive verb. It signifies the act of holding and using something, typically a tool, weapon, or abstract concept like power, with skill and effectiveness. Ludwig AI confirms its active usage in contexts requiring control and management.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

76%

Formal & Business

14%

Science

10%

Less common in

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "wield" is a versatile transitive verb signifying the skillful and effective use of a tool, weapon, power, or influence. As highlighted by Ludwig, its grammatical correctness and varied usage across authoritative sources like The Guardian and The Economist make it a reliable choice for expressing control and management. Ludwig AI's analysis confirms its active voice and intent to convey effective action. When using "wield", ensure the subject actively controls the object and consider context-specific alternatives like "exert influence" or "exercise power" for nuanced expression.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

exert influence

Focuses more on the application of influence rather than the act of holding or using something.

exercise power

Highlights the active application of authority or control.

handle skillfully

Emphasizes the adeptness in managing or using something.

control effectively

Stresses the competence in maintaining command or regulation.

employ strategically

Focuses on the deliberate and planned use of resources or tactics.

apply authority

Highlights the implementation of official power or command.

command effectively

Emphasizes the ability to give orders and ensure compliance successfully.

manage adroitly

Highlights the cleverness and skill in handling complex situations or resources.

manipulate expertly

Focuses on the skillful handling or control of something, sometimes with a negative connotation.

exploit resourcefully

Emphasizes the clever and efficient use of resources, sometimes with a connotation of taking advantage.

FAQs

How can I use "wield" in a sentence?

You can use "wield" to describe someone using power, authority, or a tool effectively. For instance, "The manager "wields authority" over the team", or "The artist "wielded a brush" with precision".

What are some synonyms for "wield"?

Alternatives to "wield" include "exert", "exercise", "handle", "control", and "manage". The best choice depends on the specific context.

Is it correct to say "wield influence"?

Yes, "wield influence" is a common and correct usage. It means to effectively use or exercise one's influence. For example, "The organization "wields considerable influence" in the community."

What's the difference between "wield" and "have"?

"Have" simply indicates possession, while "wield" implies active and skillful use or control. You can "have" power, but you "wield" it when you actively use it. "Wielding power" suggests a directed and intentional action.