exercise their power

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "exercise their power" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used in contexts where individuals or groups are utilizing their authority or influence to take action or make decisions. Example: "The committee decided to exercise their power to implement new regulations for the organization."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Academia

Encyclopedias

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

50 human-written examples

This is one of the most subtle and insidious forms in which the richer, more powerful, and mostly international, stakeholders exercise their power to dictate international development agendas.

Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations

The contradiction of simultaneously wishing technology companies less powerful, but also wanting them to exercise their power more directly, is a frequent theme when we try to make sense of this uniquely unregulated media environment.

The Guardian

Much of the focus of the book, according to Mr. Nader, is on how these immensely powerful men got that way and how they exercise their power at the top.

The New York Times

Others exercise their power transparently and democratically.

The New York Times

All? Neither? -How did they exercise their power?

The New York Times

Nation states evolved a justice system, and rule of law, precisely to exercise their power responsibly, fairly and predictably.

The Guardian - Tech

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

10 human-written examples

The more they exercise their powers, the stronger they get.

The New Yorker

And they exercise their powers through David's son, Aidan, who manages their UK interests.

The Guardian

Many councils exercise their powers to force people to sell their houses to pay for their dementia care.

The Guardian - Opinion

Anti-hero litigation raised its head, the cops now handle crime, and, by government decree, Bob and Helen are forbidden to exercise their powers outside the home.

The New Yorker

Prime ministers have nevertheless been overruled by the cabinet on many occasions and must generally have its support to exercise their powers.

Britannica

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When writing about institutions or groups, ensure that the context clearly defines the scope and limitations of the "exercise their power". Provide specific examples of actions taken to avoid ambiguity.

Common error

Avoid portraying the "exercise their power" as absolute or unchecked. Acknowledge any existing constraints, accountabilities, or countervailing forces to maintain a balanced and credible perspective.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "exercise their power" functions as a verb phrase with an object. It describes the action of utilizing one's authority, control, or influence. Ludwig confirms its grammatical correctness and usability.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

34%

Science

16%

Formal & Business

16%

Less common in

Academia

12%

Encyclopedias

4%

Wiki

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "exercise their power" is a versatile and commonly used expression that describes the act of utilizing authority, control, or influence. As confirmed by Ludwig, the phrase is grammatically sound and widely applicable across various contexts, including news, science, business, and academia. When using this phrase, it's important to consider the specific context and ensure that the extent and limitations of the power being exercised are clearly defined. While alternatives such as "wield their influence" or "exert their authority" may be suitable in certain situations, "exercise their power" remains a direct and effective way to convey the concept of utilizing one's capacity to act and make decisions.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

wield their influence

Replaces "power" with "influence", focusing on the capacity to affect someone or something.

exert their authority

Substitutes "power" with "authority", emphasizing the right to give orders and enforce obedience.

utilize their control

Replaces "exercise" with "utilize" and "power" with "control", highlighting the ability to direct or manage.

apply their leverage

Changes "power" to "leverage", suggesting the use of an advantage to achieve a desired outcome.

activate their agency

Replaces "exercise" with "activate" and "power" with "agency", focusing on the capacity to act independently and make choices.

employ their strength

Swaps "power" with "strength", highlighting the inherent ability to overcome resistance.

enforce their will

Emphasizes the imposition of one's desires or decisions on others.

bring their weight to bear

An idiomatic alternative that suggests applying one's full influence or resources.

assert their dominance

Focuses on establishing and maintaining a superior position or control.

capitalize on their position

Highlights the act of taking advantage of one's favorable circumstances.

FAQs

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

You can use "exercise their power" to describe how individuals or groups use their authority or influence. For example, "The board members decided to "exercise their power" to approve the new budget".

What are some alternatives to "exercise their power"?

Some alternatives include "wield their influence", "exert their authority", or "utilize their control", depending on the specific context.

Is it always appropriate to use the phrase "exercise their power"?

While grammatically correct, consider the connotations. It can sometimes imply a heavy-handed or assertive approach. Alternatives might be more suitable depending on the tone you wish to convey.

What's the difference between "exercise their power" and "exert their influence"?

"Exercise their power" generally refers to using formal authority or control, while "exert their influence" suggests a more subtle or persuasive approach.