ENGLISH
REFERENCE

in a position to do sth

fixed phr..
B2 Upper Intermediate Oxford

fixed phr.. to have the power, money, or information you need to do something.

fixed phr.. to possess the necessary resources, authority, or circumstances required to perform a specific action.


SIMPLE

I am not in a position to help you right now.

CONTEXTUAL

After the recent promotion, she is finally in a position to buy her own apartment.

COMPLEX

The company is currently in a position to negotiate more favorable terms with its suppliers due to its increased market share.

Usage

often used in formal or professional contexts, especially in the negative to politely refuse a request.

Teaching tip

this phrase functions as a more formal alternative to 'can' or 'be able to', emphasizing the external circumstances rather than just internal ability.

Pitfall

I am in position to help.I am in a position to help.the indefinite article 'a' is required before 'position' in this fixed expression.

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