gain power over

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "gain power over" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used in contexts where one entity seeks to exert control or influence over another. Example: "The organization aimed to gain power over the local community by implementing various initiatives."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

23 human-written examples

That allows some people to gain power over other people.

Encyclopedia Britannica

By poking fun, "you invert that power structure and gain power over those people".

The New York Times

This year the regions gain power over agricultural policy, such that the federal ministry will disappear next year.

The Economist

But after the collapse of the Soviet Union he became concerned that the United States was increasingly using its military presence to gain power over the global economy.

The New York Times

Accelerating a push to gain power over the organization, a push that began even before telephones and the Internet arrived, establishment figures like Muacir Baretto made a successful effort to take control of the weavers' society.

The New York Times

"Forcing victims to resolve crimes perpetrated against them without going to the police will do nothing but feed the destructive culture of silence that allows criminals to gain power over communities through fear".

The Guardian

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

36 human-written examples

Cities that choose to have an elected mayor gain powers over economic development, transport and social care.

The Guardian

As merging hospitals keep gaining power over health care, the public continues to wait for nonexistent benefits.

The New York Times

During the next 35 years the Visconti extended their dominion by gaining power over Cremona (1334), Pavia, Lodi, Bergamo (1332), Como (1335), Piacenza (1337), Tortona, and Parma (1346).

Encyclopedia Britannica

He stalks the streets of Belfast, meticulously targeting professional women, all of whom he has followed and gained power over in some way.

The Guardian - TV & Radio

Inception, Memento and Insomnia are really about people gaining power over others by taking control of the narrative, by spinning a more persuasive story".

The Guardian - Film

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "gain power over", consider the specific type of power being acquired (e.g. political, economic, social) to provide context and clarity. For example, instead of 'the company gained power over the market', specify 'the company gained economic power over the market through strategic acquisitions'.

Common error

Avoid using "gain power over" when the influence is minimal or temporary. Instead of 'the politician gained power over the voters with a single speech', consider a more accurate description such as 'the politician increased influence among the voters with a compelling speech'.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "gain power over" functions as a verb phrase, indicating an action of acquiring control or authority. Ludwig provides examples from various contexts, supporting its role in describing how entities exert influence.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

44%

Encyclopedias

12%

Wiki

12%

Less common in

Science

16%

Formal & Business

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "gain power over" is a grammatically sound and commonly used expression that signifies the act of acquiring control, influence, or authority. As Ludwig AI confirms, it appears across various contexts, particularly in News & Media, Encyclopedias, and Science. While the phrase is generally neutral, it's crucial to consider the specific type of power and avoid overstating its extent for clarity and accuracy. Alternative phrases like "acquire authority over" or "exert influence over" can offer nuanced variations depending on the intended meaning. This phrase effectively communicates strategic actions or shifts in relationships.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

acquire authority over

Focuses on the formal acquisition of authority rather than a general increase in power.

establish dominance over

Emphasizes a more forceful and sustained control.

exert influence over

Highlights the use of persuasive tactics rather than direct control.

seize control of

Suggests a sudden or forceful taking of control.

assume command of

Implies taking a leadership role and directing others.

secure leverage over

Focuses on obtaining an advantage that can be used to influence decisions.

wield influence over

Highlights the active exercise of influence.

take charge of

Implies assuming responsibility and direction.

dominate

A single word with similar meaning, but can be too absolute.

get the upper hand on

Informal way to suggest to get the advantage.

FAQs

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

You can use "gain power over" to describe the act of acquiring control, influence, or authority over someone or something. For example, "The corporation sought to gain power over its competitors through aggressive marketing tactics."

What are some alternatives to "gain power over"?

Alternatives to "gain power over" include "acquire authority over", "establish dominance over", or "exert influence over", depending on the specific context.

Is it more appropriate to say "gain power over" or "increase power over"?

"Gain power over" suggests an initial acquisition of power, while "increase power over" indicates a strengthening of existing power. The choice depends on whether power is being newly acquired or already held and strengthened.

What's the difference between "gain power over" and "get power over"?

"Gain power over" is generally considered more formal and suggests a deliberate effort to acquire control or influence. "Get power over", on the other hand, is more informal and can imply a less intentional or more opportunistic acquisition of power.