power

[ˈpaʊər]

power Definition

  • 1the ability or capacity to do something or act in a particular way
  • 2physical strength or force
  • 3political control or influence over a country or people

Using power: Examples

Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "power" can be used in various situations through the following examples!

  • Example

    The power of the wind can be harnessed to generate electricity.

  • Example

    She used her power to help those in need.

  • Example

    The company has a lot of economic power.

  • Example

    He lifted the heavy box with all his power.

power Synonyms and Antonyms

Synonyms for power

Antonyms for power

Idioms Using power

  • hold all the cards (the power)

    to have complete control over a situation or person

    Example

    In this negotiation, she holds all the cards and has the power to make the final decision.

  • in someone's power

    under someone's control or authority

    Example

    Whether or not we get the promotion is in the boss's power.

  • knowledge is power

    having knowledge or information about something gives you an advantage over others who do not have it

    Example

    If you want to succeed in business, remember that knowledge is power.

Phrases with power

  • a situation in which nations or groups of nations have roughly equal power and are therefore able to prevent any one nation or group from becoming too strong

    Example

    The balance of power in Europe was upset by the war.

  • a movement in the 1960s that protested against war and promoted peace, love, and freedom, often associated with hippies

    Example

    The festival was a celebration of flower power and the counterculture of the 1960s.

  • a concept in philosophy, particularly in the works of Friedrich Nietzsche, referring to the driving force within humans that compels them to exercise their will to dominate and control others

    Example

    Nietzsche's philosophy of the will to power has been influential in modern thought.

Origins of power

from Old English 'pōwer', meaning 'ability, strength, control'

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Summary: power in Brief

The term 'power' [ˈpaʊər] refers to the ability or capacity to do something, physical strength or force, and political control or influence over a country or people. It is exemplified by phrases like 'She used her power to help those in need.' 'Power' extends into idioms like 'hold all the cards (the power),' implying complete control, and 'knowledge is power,' denoting the advantage of having information.

How do native speakers use this expression?