exercise of power

USAGE SUMMARY

"exercise of power" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to describe the authority or ability of an individual or group to execute their will. For example, "The prince held a firm exercise of power over the kingdom."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

58 human-written examples

They are also increasingly frustrated with America's exercise of power.

The New York Times

This "exercise of power", he claimed, could only be understood as being "exercised socially".

The Guardian

Yet the conditions of guinea-pigging make any exercise of power difficult.

The New Yorker

How can an empirical attitude, necessary for the responsible exercise of power, compete with that?

The Guardian

Size didn't matter so much as the exercise of power – spiritual or temporal.

The Guardian

But those who are accustomed to the exercise of power know otherwise.

The New Yorker

In theory, Congress and the courts check and balance the President's exercise of power.

The New Yorker

The exercise of power by the students was remarkable because they have generally been passive.

The New Yorker

They have graduated from the comfort zone of opposition to the partial exercise of power.

The Guardian - Opinion

The real problem, she said, "is the culture of the exercise of power".

The New York Times - Magazine

Mr. Scindia came from a family practiced in the exercise of power.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When writing about political or social dynamics, use "exercise of power" to denote the practical application of authority, influence, or control. This phrase is suitable for describing actions taken by individuals, groups, or institutions.

Common error

Avoid using "exercise of power" when describing actions that are unethical, illegal, or illegitimate. "Abuse of power" is more appropriate in such cases to convey the misuse of authority for personal gain or oppressive purposes.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "exercise of power" functions primarily as a noun phrase. It typically acts as the subject or object of a sentence, describing the action or process of utilizing authority or control. Ludwig AI indicates this phrase is correct and usable in English.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

55%

Encyclopedias

15%

Science

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

10%

Reference

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "exercise of power" is a grammatically sound and commonly used expression for describing the application of authority or control. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and usability across various contexts. Predominantly found in news and media, encyclopedias, and scientific writings, this phrase serves to explain, analyze, or describe situations where authority is actively in play. Remember to distinguish "exercise of power" from "abuse of power", ensuring accurate representation of the situation. For alternative phrasing, consider options like "application of authority" or "exertion of influence" to add nuance to your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

exercise of control

This phrase is almost synonymous, but slightly emphasizes the aspect of restraining or directing something.

wielding of power

This option emphasizes the act of holding and using power, often suggesting a skillful or strategic approach.

application of authority

This alternative focuses on the practical implementation of formal authority, implying a more structured and legitimate use of power.

exertion of influence

This phrase emphasizes the act of affecting decisions or actions through indirect means, highlighting persuasive or manipulative power.

deployment of control

This option suggests a strategic and deliberate use of control mechanisms to achieve specific outcomes.

implementation of command

This alternative refers to the execution of orders or directives, underlining hierarchical power structures.

use of dominance

This phrase highlights the utilization of a superior position to prevail or control others, often implying a more forceful or aggressive approach.

practice of governance

This alternative specifically relates to the act of governing, suggesting a broader and more systemic use of power within an organization or state.

application of force

This phrase refers to the direct use of physical or coercive power to achieve a desired result.

discharge of responsibility

This alternative emphasizes the fulfillment of duties and obligations associated with a position of authority.

FAQs

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

You can use "exercise of power" to describe the way authority or control is used in different situations. For example, "The government's "exercise of power" was met with public resistance".

What are some alternatives to "exercise of power"?

Alternatives to "exercise of power" include "application of authority", "exertion of influence", or "deployment of control", depending on the specific context.

What's the difference between "exercise of power" and "abuse of power"?

"Exercise of power" generally refers to the legitimate and appropriate use of authority, while "abuse of power" describes the unethical or illegal use of authority for personal gain or oppression.

Is "exercise of power" formal or informal language?

"Exercise of power" is considered neutral to formal language, suitable for academic, professional, and news contexts. It's less common in casual conversation.