gain power

USAGE SUMMARY

"gain power" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to refer to someone or something becoming increasingly strong or influential. For example, "The CEO is working hard to gain power within the industry."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

53 human-written examples

Independent baby boomers (pdf) gain power.

The New York Times

-Who is likely to gain power?

The New York Times

When and how did he gain power?

The New York Times

They want to gain power and 'punish' men".

The Guardian

Let your voice gain power as you go.

The Guardian - Books

Ultimately, it is a way to gain power".

The Guardian

So, each subgroup needs alliances to gain power.

The New Yorker

Someone would have done it to gain power.

The Guardian

In short, say whatever it takes to gain power.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

2 human-written examples

Individually, each resident would gain power, wealth, and access.

Huffington Post

Grinding to gain power-over?

Los Angeles Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When writing about political or social dynamics, use "gain power" to describe how individuals or groups increase their influence or authority. This phrase is direct and easily understood.

Common error

Do not use constructions like "power was gained by" as it weakens the sentence. Instead, use active voice such as "they gained power" for a more impactful statement.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "gain power" functions primarily as a verb phrase. It describes the action of acquiring or increasing one's influence, authority, or control. Ludwig provides numerous examples across various contexts, confirming its grammatical role and usability.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Science

25%

Wiki

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Encyclopedias

5%

Reference

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "gain power" is a versatile and commonly used expression that describes the process of acquiring influence or control. As confirmed by Ludwig, it is grammatically sound and widely accepted in English. Its usage spans various contexts, from news and media to scientific and general discussions. While alternatives like "acquire influence" or "increase authority" may offer nuanced meanings, "gain power" provides a direct and easily understood way to convey the concept of increasing one's capacity to exert influence. Remember to use active voice constructions for a more impactful statement and consider the specific context when choosing an alternative.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

acquire influence

Focuses on obtaining influence specifically, rather than a general form of power.

increase authority

Emphasizes the augmentation of formal or recognized authority.

build strength

Highlights the development of inner fortitude or resilience.

assert dominance

Implies a forceful establishment of superiority.

establish control

Focuses on setting up a system of command or regulation.

accumulate leverage

Suggests gathering resources or advantages to exert pressure.

secure advantage

Highlights the act of ensuring a beneficial position or edge.

expand reach

Refers to broadening the scope of influence or operation.

enhance position

Emphasizes improving one's standing or status.

develop clout

Indicates the gradual building of informal influence or pull.

FAQs

How can I use "gain power" in a sentence?

Use "gain power" to describe the process of acquiring influence, authority, or control, such as "The political party sought to "gain power" through grassroots movements".

What's a good alternative to "gain power"?

Depending on the context, you could use phrases like "acquire influence", "increase authority", or "establish control" as alternatives to "gain power".

Is it better to say "gain power" or "obtain power"?

"Gain power" and "obtain power" are quite similar. "Gain power" often implies a gradual process, while "obtain power" can suggest a more immediate acquisition.

What does it mean to "gain power through weakness"?

To "gain power through weakness" suggests using perceived vulnerabilities or disadvantages as a means to achieve influence or control, often by eliciting sympathy or underestimating opponents. It is possible to "gain power" by showing vulnerability.