a substantial power

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a substantial power" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a significant amount of influence, authority, or energy in various contexts, such as politics, technology, or personal capabilities. Example: "The new legislation grants the agency a substantial power to regulate the industry more effectively."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

11 human-written examples

That is either a substantial power with important consequences or a trivial power with negligible consequences.

The Guardian

Black sitcoms have found a substantial power base on Fox, WB and UPN.

The New York Times

This is due to Telehouse North, one of our internet connection partners in the Docklands, suffering a substantial power failure.

The Guardian - Tech

As prime minister and head of military intelligence he had built a substantial power base.

BBC

As observed, these two suboptimal schemes achieve the same s.d.o.f. of although the generalized SVD incurs a substantial power loss.

EURASIP Journal on Wireless Communications and Networking

In opposition to the west, the second major absolutist form was that of Russia, a substantial power with limited internal distinctions.

SEP

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

48 human-written examples

The president's duties include deciding which party to ask to form a government after an election, a role that confers substantial power in an era of fragmented parliaments.

The Economist

Anthony Tommasini's observation that composers like Judith Weir, Steven Mackey and Stephen Hartke have something fresh and urgent to say ["A Defense of Messiness in Programs," Jan .7] should not be lost on Zarin Mehta, a man who wields substantial power at a time when the orchestral organization in America is searching for its identity and a sense of purpose.

The New York Times - Arts

Although such a cascade would provide substantial power, it would likely reduce biodiversity and ecosystem service values of the LMB, while undercutting the livelihood and food security of millions of people.

Science Magazine

A central principle of that system is that a patent holder has a legal monopoly and, therefore, substantial power to name its price.

Forbes

Fraudulent elections could add to the troublesome brew, undermining a government that has enjoyed substantial power and support.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "a substantial power" to describe situations where influence or control is demonstrably significant, but not necessarily absolute. Provide quantifiable or qualitative evidence to support the assertion of "a substantial power".

Common error

Avoid using "a substantial power" to describe minor or negligible effects. Ensure the context clearly justifies the description, as overstating influence can weaken your argument.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a substantial power" functions primarily as a noun phrase, where "substantial" modifies the noun "power". According to Ludwig, the phrase is correct and usable. It typically identifies an entity possessing a significant degree of influence, authority or capacity within a given sphere.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Science

60%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "a substantial power" is a grammatically sound and frequently used expression to describe entities wielding significant influence or authority. As Ludwig AI confirms, its use is correct and applicable across varied contexts, especially in News & Media and Science, and it can often describe either the ability to generate energy or a powerful political force. While alternatives like "significant authority" or "considerable influence" exist, "a substantial power" distinctly emphasizes the degree of influence. Use it judiciously, ensuring the described power is demonstrably significant.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

significant authority

Emphasizes formal right to control or command, differing slightly in formality.

considerable influence

Highlights the capacity to affect someone or something, shifting the focus from direct control.

marked potency

Focuses on the effectiveness and strength of the power, bringing a sense of impact.

significant leverage

Implies using power to gain an advantage, adding a strategic aspect.

extensive control

Stresses the breadth of power held, rather than its intensity.

appreciable strength

Highlights the measurable force or intensity, providing a tangible aspect.

real clout

Uses a more informal term to indicate influence, varying in tone and register.

meaningful impact

Emphasizes the effect of the power, rather than the power itself.

notable capacity

Stresses the ability to do something, shifting focus from the inherent power.

substantial force

Highlights the physical or coercive aspect of power.

FAQs

How can I use "a substantial power" in a sentence?

You can use "a substantial power" to describe someone or something with significant influence or control. For example: "The president wields "a substantial power" in foreign policy."

What are some alternatives to "a substantial power"?

Alternatives include phrases like "significant authority", "considerable influence", or "marked potency", depending on the specific nuance you wish to convey.

In what contexts is it appropriate to use "a substantial power"?

It's appropriate in contexts where there's a need to emphasize a notable degree of influence or control, such as in political analysis, business strategy, or scientific discussions. Avoid using it in overly informal or trivial situations.

What's the difference between "a substantial power" and "a great power"?

"A great power" typically refers to a nation with significant global influence, while ""a substantial power"" can refer to any entity (individual, organization, or nation) with considerable influence within a specific context.