coercive power

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "coercive power" is correct and usable in written English.
It is especially commonly used in discussions of government and political science. For example, one might say, "The legislative branch of government holds coercive power, allowing it to pass laws without permission from the other branches."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

And we didn't have any coercive power.

Harvard Business Review

Has Saudi Arabia's coercive power in the oil market diminished?

The New York Times

The state apparatus is weakened by its diminishing coercive power.

Forest Policy and Economics

The Assads' regime has played on sectarian tensions, but its coercive power also kept conflict restrained.

The New Yorker

In Mao's China, the coercive power of the state penetrated every corner of national life.

The New York Times

Professors have coercive power, which isn't the best thing to pair with financial opportunity.

The New Yorker

"You will normally see coercive power as a prerogative of the state.

Independent

He blamed in part the deadlocked Security Council's failure to give his efforts coercive power.

The New York Times

At first glance, status power might be thought of as similar to reward or coercive power.

Harvard Business Review

Coercive power refers to a manager's ability to impose punishment on others.

Harvard Business Review

And there is no coercive power to force a cease-fire and open a negotiating process".

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "coercive power" to describe situations where force, threats, or intimidation are used to achieve compliance or control.

Common error

Be mindful of the negative connotations often associated with "coercive power". Ensure the context clarifies whether its application is legitimate or illegitimate.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "coercive power" functions primarily as a noun phrase, often acting as the subject or object in a sentence. It refers to the ability or capacity to compel action through force or the threat of force. Ludwig AI confirms its correct and usable status in English, especially when describing governmental authority.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

38%

Science

33%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

8%

Academia

8%

Reference

3%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "coercive power" is a commonly used noun phrase referring to the capacity to enforce compliance through force or the threat of force. Ludwig AI affirms its proper usage in English, particularly within discussions of government, law, and political science. While its connotations can be negative, the phrase itself is neutral and widely employed across different domains. The phrase's frequency in news and media, scientific literature, and formal business contexts highlights its relevance in describing how authority and control are exerted in society. When using "coercive power", be mindful of the potential for negative associations and ensure the context clearly indicates whether the application of such power is legitimate or illegitimate.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

forceful authority

This alternative emphasizes the authoritative aspect of power being exercised forcefully.

compelling force

This focuses on the compelling nature of the power, highlighting its ability to influence action.

controlling influence

This highlights the aspect of control exerted through influence.

regulatory authority

This alternative specifically relates to power within a regulatory context.

disciplinary power

This focuses on the power to enforce discipline or obedience.

commanding influence

This emphasizes the commanding aspect of influence derived from power.

power of enforcement

This directly addresses the power to enforce rules or laws.

domineering control

This phrase carries a more negative connotation, implying oppressive control.

power to compel

This alternative highlights the ability to force someone to do something.

ability to enforce compliance

This focuses on the capacity to ensure that people comply with rules or decisions.

FAQs

How is "coercive power" typically used in a sentence?

You'll often see "coercive power" used to describe the power of a government or authority to enforce laws or regulations. For example, "The state's "coercive power" is essential for maintaining order".

What are some alternatives to "coercive power"?

Depending on the context, you could use phrases like "forceful authority", "compelling force", or "power of enforcement".

In what contexts is the use of "coercive power" most appropriate?

"Coercive power" is particularly relevant in discussions about government, law, political science, and organizational management where enforcement and compliance are key considerations.

Is "coercive power" always a negative concept?

While "coercive power" can have negative connotations, it's not inherently negative. Its appropriateness depends on the legitimacy and justification of its use. For example, the "coercive power" of the state is often seen as necessary for maintaining law and order.