has power in

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase 'has power in' is correct and usable in written English, though it may be more commonly heard in spoken English.
It is usually used to describe the ability or authority of someone or something to have an influence or effect on something else. For example, you might say, "The mayor has power in making decisions about the city's budget."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

26 human-written examples

He has power in his hands.

The New Yorker

Dustin as Ace has power in stillness, strength even in immobility.

The New York Times

The Free Army has power in many neighbourhoods in Homs: Bayada, Khaldiyeh, Baba Amr.

The Guardian

Mrs Alighieri hasn't got a chance against Dante's dead Beatrice; a wife only has power in the real, prosaic world of disappointment.

The Guardian - Books

Our theme this year is going to be power, so we'll be taking an international look at who has power in the world as well as domestically.

The Guardian

who heads the House Ways and Means Comm, and who has power in fiscal affairs, favors a tax measure containing an 11% cut for individuals and would let surplus profits taxes passout of the picture.

The New Yorker

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

34 human-written examples

"They had power in 1965.

The New Yorker

I have power in my voice".

The Guardian - Lifestyle

"May I have power in my arms, may I have power in my legs, may I have power in my mouth, may I have power in my every member".

The Guardian

Later, he asked the Malians if they really had "power in the desert".

The New Yorker

They asked, would the central bank still have power in such a world?

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "has power in", ensure the subject and object are clearly defined to avoid ambiguity. For instance, specify who or what holds the power and in what area they hold it.

Common error

Avoid using "has power in" without specifying the area where the power is exerted. For example, instead of saying "He has power in", specify "He "has power in" the committee."

Linguistic Context

The phrase "has power in" functions as a predicative expression indicating that a subject possesses authority, influence, or control within a specific domain. Ludwig examples show it being used to describe individuals, groups, or entities wielding influence in various contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Science

20%

Wiki

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Encyclopedias

3%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "has power in" is a versatile expression used to denote influence or authority within a specific context. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is grammatically correct and commonly used, particularly in News & Media and Science. While alternatives like "wields authority in" or "exercises influence over" offer similar meanings, "has power in" provides a straightforward and widely understood way to describe someone or something's ability to affect outcomes within a defined area. When using this phrase, ensure the subject and area of influence are clear to avoid ambiguity. Avoid vague subject when using the phrase.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

has authority over

Directly states that someone is in charge and has legitimate power.

wields authority in

Emphasizes the active use of authority within a specific domain.

exercises influence over

Highlights the act of exerting influence rather than just possessing it.

holds sway in

Implies a dominating influence or control over something.

is influential within

Focuses on the extent of influence in a particular area.

exerts control in

Highlights the active application of control in a particular situation.

possesses control over

Stresses the aspect of direct control and management.

carries weight in

Indicates that someone's opinion or actions are significant and impactful.

is dominant in

Suggests a position of strength and control over others.

dominates within

Conveys a sense of comprehensive control or superiority in a specific area.

FAQs

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

You can use "has power in" to indicate influence or authority within a particular domain. For example: "The president "has power in" shaping national policy."

What are some alternatives to "has power in"?

Alternatives include "wields authority in", "exercises influence over", or "holds sway in", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it better to say "has power in" or "has authority over"?

"Has power in" generally implies influence within a specific area, while "has authority over" suggests a more formal or legitimate control. The best choice depends on the context.

What does it mean when someone "has power in" a certain field?

It means they possess influence and control within that field, capable of affecting decisions, outcomes, and the direction of that field.