flow of power

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "flow of power" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used in contexts discussing energy, authority, or influence, often in technical, political, or metaphorical discussions. Example: "The flow of power between the two countries has shifted dramatically in recent years."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Academia

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

These controls allow the flow of power to be tailored to each vehicle and each drivetrain.

The New York Times

Many high-technology companies also demand an unrelenting flow of power round the clock.

The New York Times

Germany's Social Democrats are not proposing a one-way flow of power to Brussels.

The Economist

The flow of power from nation-states to the EU has been remorseless.

The Economist

The Brezhnev era further added to the flow of power to the periphery.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Mr. Clendenin said company officials assumed that flooding in substations interrupted the flow of power.

The New York Times

Hence there was a centrifugal flow of power from the centre to the periphery.

Encyclopedia Britannica

The independent system operator for the region monitors the flow of power but does not manage it.

The New York Times

Computer chips make AC motors practical by regulating the flow of power with a precision impossible by any other means.

MIT Technology Review

Ms. Laker, armed only with a hand-held camera, gets to reverse the flow of power, if only briefly.

The New York Times - Arts

Many flywheels used on reciprocating engines to smooth out the flow of power are made in this way.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When discussing technical systems like electrical grids, use "flow of power" to describe the movement of electricity. In political contexts, use it to describe shifts in authority or influence.

Common error

Avoid using "flow of power" when you actually mean "source of power". The former describes movement or distribution, while the latter refers to the origin or generator.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "flow of power" primarily functions as a noun phrase, often serving as the subject or object of a sentence. As Ludwig AI indicates, it is grammatically correct and widely used. Examples from Ludwig illustrate its use in various contexts, from electrical systems to political dynamics.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

45%

Academia

25%

Science

15%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

8%

Formal & Business

5%

Wiki

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "flow of power" is a versatile and commonly used noun phrase that describes the movement, distribution, or transfer of influence, authority, or energy. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's grammatically sound and widely accepted, appearing frequently in news, academic, and scientific contexts. The analysis reveals that while primarily neutral in tone, its formality can shift based on the context. For more general alternatives, one can use "power shift" or "power dynamic" depending on the meaning one wants to convey. Remember to use "source of power" when referring to the origin rather than its distribution.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

power shift

Indicates a change or movement in the control or influence held by different parties.

transmission of energy

Highlights the transfer of energy from one point to another, often in a technical context.

power dynamic

Focuses on the relationship and balance of influence rather than the movement itself.

current of authority

Metaphorically suggests the movement of influence or command in a specific direction.

distribution of authority

Emphasizes how control is spread across different entities or individuals.

channel of influence

Highlights the method or pathway through which control or authority is exerted.

transfer of command

Focuses on the act of handing over authority or responsibility.

ebb and flow of control

Implies fluctuating levels of influence or command over time.

exercise of influence

Emphasizes the active use of power to affect outcomes or decisions.

application of force

Implies a more direct and potentially coercive use of power.

FAQs

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

You can use "flow of power" to describe the movement of energy in a system, as in, "The engineers monitored the "flow of power" through the electrical grid". It can also be used metaphorically to describe the distribution of authority.

What's a good alternative to "flow of power" in a political context?

In political discussions, consider alternatives like "power shift", "distribution of authority", or "power dynamic" to convey similar meanings.

Is "flow of power" appropriate for formal writing?

Yes, "flow of power" is suitable for formal writing, especially in technical, political, or economic contexts. However, ensure the meaning is clear and precise for your audience.

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

"Flow of power" describes the movement or distribution of influence or energy, while "exercise of power" refers to the actual act of using one's authority or control.