hold power over

USAGE SUMMARY

The expression "hold power over" is correct and can be used in written English.
You can use it in reference to a person or group of people controlling or influencing another person or group of people. For example: "The dictator held power over the citizens of the country for many years."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

20 human-written examples

The media kids wanted to hold power over their audience; Zuckerberg wanted to empower an audience.

The Guardian - Opinion

Each is a pastiche, pitch perfect and strewn with common themes and clues: one group's use of narratives to hold power over another.

The Guardian - Books

But progress for human rights in the face of the conservative clerics who hold power over the judiciary and the security forces is slow and fitful.

The New York Times

In an attempt to strengthen Canada's case, Mr. Day wants Canada's provinces — which also hold power over local governments — to formally agree to open their purchasing to foreign companies.

The New York Times

Groups that demand restrictions on speech that they find offensive, however, ignore a fundamental rule recognized by George Orwell as well as by the framers of the Constitution: Restrictions on speech and assembly disproportionally favor those who already hold power over those who do not.

The New York Times

Such glaring evidence of resistance to voluntary com pliance by those who literally hold power over life and death through the arbitrary use of men and weapons leaves no practical alternative to specific orders, issued at the, Federal level, and backed by legislation if neces sary.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

40 human-written examples

Phoebe mostly holds power over Will, the wounded enchantress who receives his love.

The New York Times - Books

Later he told the crowd, referring to Mr. Obama: "It's about him and holding power over you.

The New York Times

She had a deep desire to be reaffirmed, and that was the way that Jim held power over her".

The New Yorker

This Warner Brothers film has shown remarkable holding power over the last month, selling a total of $227.7 million in North America.

The New York Times

In general, when a dominant firm, or a few firms, holds power over part of the information industry, we can expect intelligence agencies to demand coöperation and partnership.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using the phrase "hold power over", ensure the context clearly defines the scope and nature of the power being exercised. This adds precision and avoids ambiguity.

Common error

Avoid using "hold power over" when the influence is minor or indirect. Overstating the degree of control can weaken your argument.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "hold power over" functions as a verb phrase indicating the ability to control, influence, or dominate someone or something. This phrase is used to describe relationships where one entity has authority or control over another. Ludwig AI confirms its proper usage.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

68%

Wiki

9%

Science

9%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Academia

5%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "hold power over" is a common and grammatically sound way to describe a relationship of control or influence. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's widely accepted in written English. Its usage spans across various contexts, but it's most frequently encountered in News & Media. Alternatives like "exert control over" or "wield authority over" can provide nuanced variations. Remember to use the phrase accurately, ensuring that the power dynamic you're describing matches the reality, as overstating the extent of power can weaken your argument. In essence, "hold power over" is a valuable tool for analyzing and describing power relationships with precision.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

have power over

Slightly more direct and less idiomatic.

exert control over

Focuses on the act of applying control, suggesting a more active or forceful influence.

wield authority over

Emphasizes formal or recognized power.

hold sway over

Indicates influence or persuasion.

exercise influence over

Highlights the subtle or indirect impact someone has.

have command over

Suggests a position of direct authority and the ability to give orders.

dominate

Implies a stronger, perhaps oppressive, level of control.

govern

Refers to the act of ruling or managing.

control

A more general term for having the ability to direct or manage something.

be in charge of

Indicates responsibility and oversight.

FAQs

How to use "hold power over" in a sentence?

Use "hold power over" to describe a situation where someone or something has control or influence over another. For example, "The government can "hold power over" its citizens through laws and regulations."

What can I say instead of "hold power over"?

You can use alternatives like "exert control over", "wield authority over", or "exercise influence over" depending on the context.

Which is correct, "hold power over" or "have power over"?

Both "hold power over" and "have power over" are grammatically correct. "Hold power over" implies a more active or maintained control, while "have power over" is a more general statement of possessing authority.

What's the difference between "hold power over" and "hold sway over"?

"Hold power over" suggests direct control or authority, whereas "hold sway over" implies influence or persuasion. The former is about command, the latter about influence.