figure of power

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "figure of power" is correct and can be used in written English.
You can use it when referring to someone who is held in high esteem, either because of their influence, wealth, or intelligence. For example: "The CEO of the company is a figure of power, and all of the employees respect him."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Books

Politics

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

13 human-written examples

You are for the first time in your life a figure of power, of threat.

The New Yorker

Paula McAvoy remembers her handsome husband as a figure of power and grace on the rink.

The New York Times

For the first time, the issue was out there, taken on by a figure of power.

The Guardian - Sport

An American with American dollars is a figure of power in a land hobbled by crushing debt.

The Guardian - Books

A cloak on passions that those who required a beard might be unwilling to discuss or even consider, the beard was itself a figure of power and mystery.

The New Yorker

Within the military, it is clear that the new figure of power is Abdel-Fatah el-Sissi, formerly head of military intelligence and now the minister of defence.

The Guardian

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

47 human-written examples

But that ignores the fact that Diaz is just the latest in a long line of entirely implausible -- and often quite malevolent -- female figures of power to appear in filmed entertainment about men's pro sports.

The New York Times - Sports

Figures of power are never forced to confront their moral hypocrisies, and when they do, the consequences are often just punch lines.

Forbes

An Independent Police Complaints Commission IPCCC) investigation has now been launched into why police child sex abuse operations into figures of power including Brittan were stalled.

Vice

Stanley Townsend as Theseus, the false news of whose death precipitates the tragedy, is a figure of burly power who might plausibly have slayed the Minotaur and bedded legions of women.

The Guardian

A hollow figure, stripped of power, of perks and - though his own actions - of dignity, his significance dropped away before the Anschutz story.

The Guardian - Opinion

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "figure of power" to describe someone who has significant influence, authority, or control in a specific context. Ensure the context is clear so the source of their power is understood.

Common error

Avoid using "figure of power" for someone who merely holds a title without demonstrable influence or control. The phrase implies active exertion of power, not just a position.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "figure of power" functions primarily as a noun phrase, acting as a subject, object, or complement within a sentence. Ludwig AI confirms its correct usage in various contexts, serving to identify individuals or entities wielding substantial influence.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Books

20%

Science

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Academia

3%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "figure of power" is a grammatically sound and frequently employed term, especially within news media and literary contexts, as affirmed by Ludwig AI. It serves to identify individuals or entities wielding significant influence, authority, or control. While versatile, its usage is most apt in formal and neutral registers, where precision and clarity are paramount. Understanding its connotations and appropriate contexts ensures effective communication and avoids misinterpretations regarding the source and scope of the power being described. Remember, it is not simply about wealth or position, but about the active exercise of influence.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

person of influence

Directly indicates the capacity to affect decisions or actions.

person in authority

Similar to "authority figure" but with a slightly broader connotation.

authority figure

Emphasizes the official or recognized power held by an individual.

powerful leader

Highlights leadership qualities combined with the ability to exert influence.

key figure

Emphasizes the importance of an individual in a particular context.

central figure

Stresses the pivotal role an individual plays in a group or situation.

influential person

Focuses on the impact an individual has on others, rather than their formal authority.

dominant force

Suggests a pervasive and controlling influence, often in a broader context.

major player

Highlights involvement in significant activities and the ability to shape outcomes.

leading light

Implies guidance and direction, with power derived from knowledge or vision.

FAQs

How can I use the phrase "figure of power" in a sentence?

You can use "figure of power" to describe someone influential, for instance: "The CEO is a significant "figure of power" within the company".

What are some alternatives to using "figure of power"?

Depending on the context, alternatives include "influential person", "authority figure", or "powerful leader".

Is it appropriate to use "figure of power" in formal writing?

Yes, "figure of power" is suitable for formal writing, especially when discussing politics, business, or social structures. Its usage is well-established in news media and academic texts.

What distinguishes a "figure of power" from someone who is simply wealthy?

While wealth can contribute to power, a "figure of power" actively wields influence or control, either through formal authority, social standing, or other means. Wealth alone doesn't guarantee this status.