a source of power

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a source of power" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to refer to something that provides energy, influence, or authority in various contexts, such as technology, politics, or personal motivation. Example: "Renewable energy technologies are increasingly recognized as a source of power for sustainable development."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

Plunketts Creek was a source of power in the nineteenth century and "water-powered sawmills, woolen mills, and grist (grain) mills lined the 'Sock and Plunketts and Big Bear Creeks".

Wikipedia

What a source of power!

The New York Times

"There's more to it than just a source of power.

The Guardian

It was understood as a source of power.

The New Yorker

The result is a source of power that has grown beyond democracy's reach.

The Guardian - Opinion

Like all adolescents nurturing a sense of injustice, Sehgal searched for a source of power.

The New Yorker

And: "Lady Juliet's Bulgari necklace gleamed out, a source of power and influence".

The New York Times - Books

He began to think of writing as a source of power, a kind of "self-defense".

The New Yorker

"That is what made Maliki's government speak strongly and consider itself as a source of power".

The New York Times

The jump serve allows a player to use the ground as a source of power.

The New York Times - Sports

Nuclear naysayers will use this to reject nuclear energy as a source of power.

The Economist

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When discussing abstract concepts like influence or control, use "a source of power" to emphasize the origin or root cause of that influence. For example, "Education can be a source of power for marginalized communities."

Common error

Avoid using "a source of power" excessively in passive sentences. Instead of saying "The company's success was powered by innovation, a source of power", opt for a more direct and active voice: "Innovation was a source of power that fueled the company's success."

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a source of power" functions primarily as a noun phrase that identifies the origin, cause, or foundation of influence, authority, or energy. Ludwig confirms that is typically used to describe where power comes from, as seen in many of the provided examples.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

63%

Science

18%

Encyclopedias

6%

Less common in

Wiki

2%

Formal & Business

0%

Academia

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "a source of power" is a versatile noun phrase used to pinpoint the origin of influence, authority, or energy. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's grammatically correct and widely used across diverse contexts, from news and media to scientific literature and encyclopedias. While "a source of power" appears most frequently in news and media, it's essential to consider its appropriate register. To avoid overuse, consider employing alternatives like "a source of influence" or "a driving force" for enhanced writing. Avoid overuse, specifically in passive constructions. Remember, "a source of power" elucidates the fundamental roots of strength and control, making it a crucial element in clear and impactful communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a source of influence

This alternative focuses on the capacity to affect or shape actions and opinions, similar to power.

a driving force

This alternative highlights the element that impels or motivates action, much like a source of power.

a generator of authority

This option emphasizes the creation or establishment of authority, akin to a source of power.

a foundation of strength

This alternative emphasizes the underlying basis or support for power.

an origin of control

This variant stresses the beginning or starting point of control, which is a form of power.

a bedrock of empowerment

This phrase specifies that the power comes from empowerment and self-determination.

a wellspring of energy

This alternative conveys the idea of a plentiful and continuously available source of energy.

a means of leverage

This phrase shifts the focus to using something to gain an advantage or exert influence.

a fount of dominance

This highlights that the origin is linked to dominance, i.e., supremacy and control.

a catalyst for action

This suggests the source initiates or accelerates activity, potentially leading to power.

FAQs

How can I use "a source of power" in a sentence?

Use "a source of power" to describe where influence, energy, or authority originates. For example, "For the ancient Greeks, mythology was "a source of power", providing explanations and guidance".

What can I say instead of "a source of power"?

You can use alternatives like "a source of influence", "a driving force", or "a foundation of strength" depending on the specific context.

Is it correct to say "the source of power" instead of "a source of power"?

Both phrases are grammatically correct, but they have slightly different meanings. "The source of power" implies there is one specific, definitive origin, while "a source of power" suggests one of potentially many origins.

What's the difference between "a source of power" and "an instrument of power"?

"A source of power" refers to where power originates, while "an instrument of power" refers to something used to exercise or implement power. The former is the origin, the latter is the tool.