a higher power

USAGE SUMMARY

"a higher power" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to refer to a greater force or spiritual being, especially one which is worshipped or considered to be all-knowing. For example, "The faithful derive strength and comfort from a higher power".

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

50 human-written examples

Contemplate a higher power.

The New York Times - Science

She is a higher power".

The New Yorker

"I surrendered to a higher power.

The Guardian - Sport

She drew on a higher power: herself.

The Guardian - Opinion

I do think there's a higher power".

The Guardian

Some turned to a higher power.

The Washington Post

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

7 human-written examples

Believe a Higher Power can help.

Duke University

AA calls it a Higher Power.

Huffington Post

I know that what is needed is a Higher Power.

Huffington Post

To find a connection to a Higher Power, for real.

Huffington Post

What can you delegate to a Higher Power?

Huffington Post

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "a higher power" when discussing spirituality, faith, or acknowledging forces beyond human control. This phrase works well in contexts where specifying a particular religious figure isn't necessary or appropriate.

Common error

Avoid using "a higher power" when referring to governmental or earthly authorities. While governments hold significant power, this phrase typically refers to spiritual or divine entities, and mixing the two could create confusion.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a higher power" typically functions as a noun phrase, serving as the object of a verb or preposition. It often represents an entity or force considered superior or divine, as illustrated by Ludwig's examples.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

73%

Wiki

5%

Huffington Post

18%

Less common in

Academia

1%

Vice

2%

The Economist

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "a higher power" is a common and grammatically correct way to refer to a spiritual or divine entity. As confirmed by Ludwig, it's widely used across various contexts, particularly in News & Media and Wiki. When writing, remember that this term is generally neutral in register and best suited for discussing faith, spirituality, or forces beyond human control. Avoid using it when referring to governmental or earthly authorities, and consider using alternative phrases like "divine being" or "supreme being" to tailor the expression to your specific context.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

Divine being

Focuses specifically on the aspect of divinity, implying a sacred or holy entity.

Supreme being

Emphasizes the unparalleled authority and dominance of the entity.

God

Directly refers to the monotheistic deity, common in Abrahamic religions.

The Almighty

Highlights the boundless power and capabilities of the entity.

Spiritual force

Focuses on the immaterial and influential aspect of the entity.

Cosmic consciousness

Presents a more abstract view, referring to a universal and interconnected awareness.

Transcendent power

Emphasizes the entity's existence beyond the normal limits of human experience.

Universal intelligence

Highlights the all-encompassing knowledge and wisdom attributed to the entity.

Source of creation

Focuses on the entity's role as the originator of existence.

Ultimate reality

Positions the entity as the fundamental and underlying truth of existence.

FAQs

What does "a higher power" mean?

The phrase "a higher power" generally refers to a divine or spiritual entity that is greater than oneself. It is often used in contexts of faith, spirituality, or recognizing forces beyond human control.

Is it appropriate to use "a higher power" in formal writing?

Yes, the phrase "a higher power" can be used in formal writing, especially when discussing philosophical, religious, or spiritual topics. However, ensure the context aligns with the neutral tone and avoids imposing personal beliefs.

What are some synonyms for "a higher power"?

Depending on the context, you can use synonyms such as "divine being", "supreme being", or "spiritual force". The best choice depends on the specific nuance you wish to convey.

How does the phrase "a higher power" differ from "God"?

While "God" typically refers to a specific deity in monotheistic religions, "a higher power" is a more general term that can encompass various spiritual entities or forces. It's often used to be inclusive of different belief systems or when the exact nature of the spiritual entity is undefined.