wield a sword

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase 'wield a sword' is correct and can be used in written English.
You may use it when describing an action, typically related to a battle, battle scene, or fantasy situation. For example, "He was an experienced swordsman, able to wield a sword with precision and finesse."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

15 human-written examples

" 'God, he can play the guitar and wield a sword!' " He chuckled, a mournful "eh, heh".

The New Yorker

"That meant not only learning the basic fighting stances, but how to wield a sword at the same time," he said.

The New York Times

Doing this, however, will mean they're be unable to wield a sword and shield at the same time, which, as any Dark Soul veteran will tell you, is taking a rather a big risk.

The Guardian - Tech

But why has it slayed popular culture so? Here, we present the greatness of Game of Thrones, from A to Z. Arya A teen hero so badass, it feels wrong to even mention her age: she can wield a sword just as easily as she can out-eyeball Charles Dance.

Independent

Tell that to the team at "The Walking Dead," the AMC horror series whose season finale ended around 10 p.m. Eastern time on Sunday with the surprise introduction of a hooded character who knows how to wield a sword and is toting two zombies she keeps in chains: a figure that fans of the "Walking Dead" comics would probably recognize as the heroine Michonne.

The New York Times

"What could be better than playing a free spirit, incredibly sexual, powerful and a great warrior, who gets to wear gorgeous dresses, long flowing hair and wield a sword?" Ms. Huston was similarly enamored of the character Viviane, whose powers include being able to part the mists that conceal Avalon from outsiders.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

41 human-written examples

"There's nothing better than wielding a sword," she said.

The New York Times

And in place of a test tube, he wields a sword.

The New York Times

He was wearing a helmet, a Star Wars mask and wielded a sword.

The Guardian - Opinion

In one of those Chinese movies, "Crouching Tiger," one of the characters wielded a sword called the Green Destiny.

The New York Times

One drawing depicted the Muhammad wearing a turban shaped as a bomb with a burning fuse, while in another he wielded a sword.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Consider the context: Use "wield a sword" when you want to convey power, skill, or mastery in using the weapon.

Common error

Avoid using the incorrect tense. Ensure the tense of "wield" matches the context (e.g., "He wielded a sword" for past tense, not "He wield a sword" if the context implies the past).

Linguistic Context

The phrase "wield a sword" functions primarily as a verb phrase describing the action of handling and using a sword. Ludwig provides examples demonstrating its use in depicting characters' abilities in combat and fictional scenarios.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

70%

Wiki

15%

Formal & Business

5%

Less common in

Science

5%

Reference

3%

Social Media

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "wield a sword" is a grammatically sound and frequently used expression that describes the action of handling a sword, typically with skill and control. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's appropriate for various contexts, most commonly found in News & Media, Wiki, and Formal & Business settings. While there are alternative ways to express this action, such as "brandish a sword" or "handle a sword", "wield a sword" effectively conveys proficiency and is versatile for portraying characters in both real and fictional scenarios.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

Brandish a sword

Focuses on the act of waving or displaying the sword, often in a threatening manner.

Handle a sword

Emphasizes the ability to manage or control a sword effectively.

Bear a sword

Suggests carrying or possessing a sword, often as a symbol of authority or readiness for battle.

Master swordsmanship

Highlights proficiency and skill in the art of using a sword.

Employ a sword

Focuses on the practical application of using a sword in combat or dueling.

Control a blade

Highlights the ability to skillfully control a bladed weapon, emphasizing precision.

Use a sword

A general term for engaging with a sword, devoid of any emphasis on skill or mastery.

Draw a sword

Emphasizes the action of unsheathing or preparing a sword for use.

Thrust with a sword

Describes a specific action involving pushing or stabbing with a sword.

Slash with a sword

Describes a specific action involving cutting or striking with a sword.

FAQs

How can I use "wield a sword" in a sentence?

You can use "wield a sword" to describe someone's ability to use a sword effectively, as in, "The knight was skilled and could "wield a sword" with great precision".

What are some alternatives to "wield a sword"?

Some alternatives include "brandish a sword", "handle a sword", or "bear a sword", depending on the specific nuance you wish to convey.

Is it correct to say "wield a sword" or should I use another verb?

"Wield a sword" is correct and widely accepted. However, the best choice depends on the context. Other verbs like "handle", "brandish", or "employ" can be suitable alternatives.

What is the difference between "wield a sword" and "carry a sword"?

"Wield a sword" implies skill and control in using the sword, while "carry a sword" simply means possessing or transporting it. One might "carry a sword" without knowing how to "wield a sword" effectively.