acquire power over

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "acquire power over" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used in contexts where one entity gains control or influence over another entity or situation. Example: "The organization aimed to acquire power over the local market through strategic partnerships."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

1 human-written examples

It was in this mood that the posters -- plastered over hospital walls, on every lamppost and bus shelter, across the plate glass windows of the Food Emporium -- began to acquire power over me.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

59 human-written examples

Sherrie Levine, for example, magically acquired power over certain famous male photographers by copying their works.

The New York Times - Arts

Carl Bergmanson, who has acquired power tools over the years to help his son Andrew with the race, confided that the secret was "center of gravity".

The New York Times

Ficklin discovered that his brother Eddie, who had been taking care of their mother, had acquired power of attorney over her estate just days before her death.

Vice

Reliant acquired power plants in California in April 1998.

The New York Times

Hackney's are so bad that, using newly acquired powers, the government could soon take over some or all of the council's services.

The Economist

Wales should also get power over sewerage.

BBC

If the bank is successful in its share increase, it would acquire veto power over major decisions.

Forbes

The principle of an aristocratic government is moderation, the virtue which leads those who govern in an aristocracy to restrain themselves both from oppressing the people and from trying to acquire excessive power over one another.

SEP

The spirit of inequality arises when citizens no longer identify their interests with the interests of their country, and therefore seek both to advance their own private interests at the expense of their fellow citizens, and to acquire political power over them.

SEP

Under her influence he sought the advice of spiritualists and faith healers, most notably Rasputin, who eventually acquired great power over the imperial couple.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "acquire power over", consider the context to ensure it accurately reflects the method of gaining control, whether it's gradual, forceful, or legitimate.

Common error

Avoid using "acquire power over" when the context implies simple influence or persuasion, rather than actual authority or control. Use a more appropriate phrase to reflect the degree of influence.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "acquire power over" functions as a verb phrase indicating the action of gaining control, influence, or authority over something or someone. It's used to describe the process by which an entity obtains the capacity to exert its will or enforce its decisions. Ludwig AI confirms its validity.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Science

25%

Encyclopedias

15%

Less common in

Wiki

10%

Formal & Business

5%

Reference

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "acquire power over" is a grammatically correct and commonly used expression to describe the process of gaining control or influence, as confirmed by Ludwig AI. It appears frequently in contexts such as news, science, and encyclopedias, indicating its broad applicability and neutral register. While semantically similar phrases like "gain control of" or "obtain authority over" can be used, it is important to consider the specific nuance you want to convey. Remember to consider the scope of influence when using this phrase and other alternatives.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

Gain control of

Focuses on the aspect of control rather than the process of acquiring it.

Obtain authority over

Emphasizes the formal right to exert influence or control.

Assume command of

Implies taking a leadership position or direct control.

Seize control of

Suggests a forceful or sudden acquisition of power.

Wield influence over

Highlights the exercise of power and influence.

Exert dominance over

Implies a strong, often oppressive, form of control.

Establish supremacy over

Indicates achieving a position of ultimate authority.

Dominate

A shorter, more direct way of expressing control.

Take charge of

Focuses on assuming responsibility and control.

Get the upper hand on

Suggests gaining an advantage that leads to control.

FAQs

How can I use "acquire power over" in a sentence?

You can use "acquire power over" to describe the process of gaining control or authority. For example, "The company sought to acquire power over its competitors through strategic mergers."

What's a more formal alternative to "acquire power over"?

A more formal alternative is "obtain authority over", which emphasizes the legitimacy of the control gained.

Is there a difference between "acquire power over" and "gain control of"?

"Acquire power over" emphasizes the process of obtaining power, while "gain control of" focuses on the state of having control. The difference is subtle and often context-dependent.

When is it inappropriate to use "acquire power over"?

It's inappropriate when the context implies a temporary or superficial influence rather than a significant shift in authority or control. Consider alternatives like "influence" or "sway" in those cases.