an assertion of power

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "an assertion of power" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a statement or action that demonstrates or reinforces authority or control over others. Example: "The leader's speech was seen as an assertion of power, aimed at consolidating their position within the organization."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

12 human-written examples

This is in no way analogous to rape, which is all about an assertion of power in an unequal equation.

The Guardian - Tech

It is an assertion of power from below, an insistence that the "imperial" President Emmanuel Macron should listen.

The Guardian - Opinion

This, too, was an assertion of power – an old-fashioned press investigation exposing misdeeds in high places.

The Guardian - Opinion

On the surface this seems like a reasonable idea, but it is really just an assertion of power.

The Guardian - Opinion

Any analysis of human behaviour is, among other things, an assertion of power over those whose behaviour is being analysed.

The Guardian - Books

Ansiedad's plan is partly a play for attention — from her mother and a with-it English teacher (Patricia Arquette) — and partly an assertion of power.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

48 human-written examples

The Age of Innocence, more than The Europeans, employs the small gesture as an assertion of power--most striking in May's triumphal dinner.

Johns Hopkins University

The Carolene Products Court was on solid ground in affirming that a statute that deprived constitutional challengers of the ability to demonstrate the unconstitutionality of an assertion of government power over them would itself violate the Constitution.

Huffington Post

It was pure provocation, an assertion of maximum power with minimum effort.

The New York Times - Arts

Striking down the whole law, Justice Sonia Sotomayor suggested, would be too broad an assertion of judicial power.

The New York Times

The 1650 German dome was an assertion of the power of human nobility over the heavens: Look what I can control!

The New York Times - Arts

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "an assertion of power" when describing actions or statements that aim to establish or reinforce control, especially in contexts involving social dynamics, politics, or personal relationships.

Common error

Avoid using "an assertion of power" in casual conversations or informal writing, as it can sound overly formal or pretentious. Opt for simpler alternatives like "showing strength" or "taking charge" in such situations.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "an assertion of power" functions as a noun phrase, typically acting as the subject or object of a sentence. Ludwig shows it describes actions that establish, demonstrate, or reinforce control or authority in various contexts.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Academia

30%

Encyclopedias

10%

Less common in

Science

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "an assertion of power" is a noun phrase used to describe actions that establish or reinforce control. Ludwig AI analysis indicates it is grammatically correct and commonly used, particularly in news and academic contexts. The phrase is often used to analyze actions in political, social, and interpersonal dynamics. While generally neutral in tone, it can sometimes carry negative connotations depending on the context. Related phrases include "a display of dominance" and "an exercise of authority". Be mindful of the formality level when using this phrase, and avoid overuse in casual settings.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

an assertion of authority

Directly swaps 'power' with 'authority'.

a display of dominance

Focuses on the outward exhibition of control.

an exercise of authority

Emphasizes the act of using granted or recognized power.

a claim of control

Highlights the act of declaring or taking control.

a demonstration of strength

Illustrates the capacity to exert force or influence.

an act of supremacy

Implies ultimate or unparalleled power.

a show of force

Focuses on the use of strength to exert influence.

the imposition of will

Highlights the forcing of one's desires or decisions on others.

the establishment of control

Emphasizes the act of setting up or securing power.

a manifestation of influence

Emphasizes the observable effects of power.

FAQs

How can I use "an assertion of power" in a sentence?

You can use "an assertion of power" to describe situations where someone is demonstrating control. For example, "The CEO's decision to fire the entire marketing team was seen as "an assertion of power" over the company."

What phrases are similar to "an assertion of power"?

Similar phrases include "a display of dominance", "an exercise of authority", or "a claim of control", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it always negative to describe something as "an assertion of power"?

Not necessarily. While it can imply a forceful or even oppressive exercise of control, it can also simply describe a situation where someone is taking necessary steps to establish authority or maintain order. It depends on the context.

What's the difference between "an assertion of power" and "an assertion of authority"?

"Power" refers to the ability to influence or control, while "authority" implies a legitimate right to do so. "An assertion of authority" suggests a claim based on recognized position or right, whereas "an assertion of power" may or may not have legitimacy and could be based on force or influence alone.