acquiring powers

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "acquiring powers" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used in contexts where someone is gaining abilities, skills, or authority, often in a developmental or transformative process. Example: "Through rigorous training and dedication, she is acquiring powers that will enable her to lead the team effectively."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

1 human-written examples

The first pillar - the Single Supervisory Mechanism (SSM) - will take shape next year, with the European Central Bank acquiring powers to monitor the activities of all the major eurozone banks.

BBC

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

57 human-written examples

There has always been a tension between the different demands of acquiring power and wielding it.

The Guardian - Books

The nineties witnessed the first real spurt of women acquiring power in their own right.

The New Yorker

The pattern of wives and daughters acquiring power continued even when hereditary monarchies were replaced.

The New Yorker

She can tell us that the Bushes have been ruthless in acquiring power and influence.

The Economist

At the same time, the statement of the movement's aim in acquiring power becomes vaguer and more utopian.

Encyclopedia Britannica

"It's not certain that you'll feel psychologically satisfied by fulfilling personal desires like acquiring power or wealth, or marrying the person you love.

The New York Times

Although the choice of four credible candidates represents progress, political analysts here say the candidates are simply interested in acquiring power.

The New York Times

A large part of the strategy of the Vatican and Rupert Murdoch in acquiring power was to create an aura of invincibility, a hallowed mystique.

The New York Times

"I also read The Prince in college, so I knew a little bit about acquiring power," she says.

Forbes

EDD grows when people focus too much on acquiring power, status, and money for themselves, usually with the reinforcement of the larger culture.

Huffington Post

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "acquiring powers", consider the specific context to determine if a more precise term like "gaining authority" or "developing skills" would be more appropriate.

Common error

Avoid using "acquiring powers" in overly casual situations where simpler language like "getting better at" or "learning" would be more suitable.

Linguistic Context

The primary grammatical function of "acquiring powers" is that of a gerund phrase acting as a noun phrase. It often serves as the subject or object of a sentence, describing the action of gaining abilities or authority. Ludwig examples demonstrate its use in contexts involving institutions and individuals.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Encyclopedias

20%

Science

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Wiki

3%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "acquiring powers" is a grammatically sound and usable expression that describes the process of gaining abilities, authority, or control. Ludwig AI affirms the correctness and usability of this phrase in various contexts. While not exceedingly common, it appears in reputable sources like The New York Times, The Economist, and Encyclopedia Britannica, indicating its appropriateness for neutral and formal registers. When considering related phrases, "gaining authority" or "developing skills" might offer greater precision depending on the specific context. To enhance writing, avoid overusing "acquiring powers" in overly casual situations.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

gaining authority

Focuses specifically on obtaining control or influence, a subset of overall power.

developing skills

Emphasizes the gradual improvement of abilities, rather than immediate acquisition of power.

obtaining capabilities

Highlights the act of getting the ability to do something.

assuming control

Implies taking charge or responsibility, often in a leadership role.

securing influence

Concentrates on establishing a position of impact or sway.

earning influence

Highlights that the influence is a result of effort.

building competencies

Underscores the gradual development of expertise and qualifications.

enhancing capabilities

Suggests improving existing abilities rather than acquiring new ones from scratch.

cultivating influence

Implies nurturing and growing influence over time through strategic actions.

commanding authority

This is more about wielding existing authority rather than gaining it.

FAQs

What does "acquiring powers" mean?

The phrase "acquiring powers" refers to the process of gaining abilities, authority, or control. This can apply to individuals, organizations, or even abstract concepts.

How can I use "acquiring powers" in a sentence?

You might say, "The European Central Bank is "acquiring powers" to monitor eurozone banks", or "Through dedication, she is "acquiring powers" in leadership".

What are some synonyms for "acquiring powers"?

Alternatives include "gaining authority", "developing skills", and "obtaining capabilities". The best choice depends on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it better to say "acquire powers" or "acquiring powers"?

Both are grammatically correct, but "acquiring powers" often suggests an ongoing process, while "acquire powers" implies a more definitive act of gaining abilities.