erosion of power

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "erosion of power" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a gradual decline or weakening of authority, influence, or control in a particular context. Example: "The erosion of power within the organization has led to increased employee dissatisfaction and a lack of direction."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

8 human-written examples

If the structure is out of line with the coalition, there will be an erosion of power and effectiveness.

Harvard Business Review

Except Tony Abbott, great rocker of boats in the 43rd parliament, who lamented the Americanisation of politics which leads to the erosion of power of executive government.

The Guardian

By Dave Zirin February 28 , 2011After a thirty-year erosion of power, influence, and numerical strength, a period of reckoning has arrived for organized labor, and the terms of the debate couldn't be starker.

The New Yorker

Mr. Kosner's arrival at The Daily News -- if he comes under the terms being discussed -- would lead to an erosion of power for the paper's editor, Debbie Krenek, who now has responsibility for the Sunday edition.

The New York Times

After a thirty-year erosion of power, influence, and numerical strength, a period of reckoning has arrived for organized labor, and the terms of the debate couldn't be starker.

The New Yorker

I'd stand outside of the old Shea… After a thirty-year erosion of power, influence, and numerical strength, a period of reckoning has arrived for organized labor, and the terms of the debate… In a season where N.F.L. owners have steadily threatened to lock out the players next year unless they secure more profits in the next collective….

The New Yorker

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

52 human-written examples

We have seen a steady erosion of American power and an unsteady exercise of American influence.

The New York Times

But it also reflects something bigger: the steady erosion of retailers' power.

The New Yorker

But I disagree with his suggestion that impeachment can be used to stop the erosion of federal power.

The New York Times

Perhaps most startling is the erosion of political power in a swath of states from the Northeast to the Midwest.

The New York Times

By that time, however, the corruption of his regime had led to the erosion of his power in Yunnan.

Britannica

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "erosion of power" to describe situations where influence or control is gradually diminishing over time, rather than an abrupt or sudden loss.

Common error

Avoid using "erosion of power" when describing a deliberate relinquishing of authority. "Erosion" implies a gradual, often unintentional decline, whereas abdication is a voluntary surrender.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "erosion of power" functions as a noun phrase, typically acting as the subject or object of a sentence. Ludwig AI confirms this, indicating the phrase is correctly used to describe a gradual decline or weakening of authority.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Academia

20%

Encyclopedias

20%

Less common in

Science

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "erosion of power" is a noun phrase used to describe the gradual decline or weakening of authority, influence, or control. Ludwig AI confirms that the phrase is grammatically correct and appropriate for use in various contexts. While not overly common, it's frequently found in news media and academic discussions to analyze situations where power structures are diminishing over time. To ensure accurate usage, remember that "erosion" implies a gradual decline, not a sudden loss or voluntary surrender of authority. Consider alternatives like "decline in authority" or "weakening of influence" for nuance.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

diminishing power

This is a more direct synonym, using a present participle to describe the ongoing process.

decline in authority

This alternative focuses on the reduction of formal authority.

weakening of influence

This emphasizes the lessening of persuasive capacity.

waning influence

This uses "waning" to suggest a gradual decrease in impact.

gradual loss of influence

Highlights that the loss of influence occurs gradually.

loss of control

This highlights the diminished ability to manage or direct.

slippage of control

Implies a subtle and often unnoticed decline in control.

reduction in strength

This focuses on the decreased force or intensity of power.

undermining of authority

This suggests that the power is being attacked or weakened.

dissipation of power

Indicates that power is gradually fading away or vanishing.

FAQs

How can I use "erosion of power" in a sentence?

You can use "erosion of power" to describe the gradual loss of authority or control, as in "The constant policy changes led to an "erosion of power" within the department".

What are some alternatives to "erosion of power"?

Alternatives include "decline in authority", "weakening of influence", or "loss of control", depending on the specific context.

Is it more appropriate to say "erosion of power" or "loss of power"?

"Erosion of power" suggests a gradual decline, while "loss of power" can imply a more sudden or complete removal of authority. Choose the phrase that best reflects the speed and nature of the change.

What distinguishes the phrase "erosion of power" from "abuse of power"?

"Erosion of power" refers to a decline in one's capacity to exert influence, whereas "abuse of power" describes the misuse of existing authority. They describe opposite scenarios: one is a loss, and the other an inappropriate application.