in your power

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "in your power" is grammatically correct and is commonly used in written English.
It is typically used to describe something that someone has the ability or authority to do or control. Example: "It was in my power to change the date of the meeting, but I decided to keep it as scheduled."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

You have it in your power to correct this".

The New Yorker

"Your top players are in your power play.

The New York Times - Sports

You do everything in your power and just wait".

The New York Times

Terrorism is about making other people believe in your power.

The New Yorker

Doing everything in your power to avoid paying taxes is much closer to treason.

The New York Times

You do everything in your power to make sure you don't get into that predicament again.

The New York Times - Sports

You can do everything in your power but you might still fail".

The Guardian - Lifestyle

At a global level, do everything in your power to reduce your carbon footprint.

The Guardian

"And no, Barnaby, you haven't done everything in your power to stop the mine.

The Guardian

What's important is you do everything in your power to move things forward".

The Guardian

Doing everything in your power to get your people to show up is basic politics.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using the phrase "in your power", ensure the context clearly indicates what specific actions or decisions the subject has control over. This avoids ambiguity and strengthens the message.

Common error

Avoid using "in your power" when describing situations where someone's influence is limited or indirect. Overstating control can lead to unrealistic expectations and miscommunications.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "in your power" functions primarily as a prepositional phrase. It typically modifies a verb or noun, indicating that someone possesses the ability, authority, or control to perform a specific action or influence a particular situation. Ludwig AI confirms this through numerous examples.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Wiki

30%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Reference

5%

Science

5%

Encyclopedias

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "in your power" is a common and grammatically sound expression used to indicate that someone has the ability, authority, or control to influence a situation or take a specific action. According to Ludwig AI, the phrase is correct and widely used. It's frequently found in news and media, as well as more informal contexts like wikis. While it maintains a generally neutral register, its specific tone depends on the surrounding context. When using "in your power", ensure that the context clearly defines the actions or decisions within the subject's control, and avoid overstating someone's influence. Remember, related phrases like "within your control" or "at your disposal" can offer nuanced alternatives to better suit the context.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

within your control

This phrase highlights the aspect of having direct influence and management over a situation, emphasizing the ability to determine outcomes.

in your hands

This alternative conveys the responsibility and agency one has over a matter, highlighting the power to make decisions and take action.

within your capabilities

This alternative emphasizes the abilities and skills one possesses to handle a situation, shifting the focus from authority to competence.

you have the authority

This explicitly states that the person has the official or recognized power to act or make decisions.

up to you

This phrase puts the decision-making authority solely on the individual, indicating that they have the freedom to choose the course of action.

it's your call

Similar to "up to you", this expression emphasizes the individual's right to make a decision, particularly in a situation requiring a judgment call.

at your disposal

This alternative suggests that something is readily available for use or action, focusing on accessibility rather than direct control.

you have the ability

Similar to "you are able to", but emphasizes the inherent potential or skill to accomplish something.

within your grasp

This phrase implies that something is attainable or achievable through one's efforts, emphasizing the potential for success.

you are able to

A more straightforward way of expressing capability or capacity to perform an action or influence a situation.

FAQs

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

You can use "in your power" to indicate someone's ability or authority to do something, such as "It is "in your power" to make the final decision on this project".

What are some alternatives to saying "in your power"?

Alternatives include phrases like "within your control", "at your disposal", or "within your capabilities", depending on the nuance you want to convey.

Is it correct to say "it's in my power" or "it's within my power"?

Both phrases are grammatically correct and convey a similar meaning. "Within my power" might be perceived as slightly more formal, but the choice depends on the context and personal preference.

What's the difference between "in your power" and "in your capacity"?

"In your power" refers to having the authority or ability to do something, while "in your capacity" typically refers to the role or position that enables you to act. For example, "In your power as CEO, you can approve this budget" versus "In your capacity as a doctor, you can prescribe medication".