instruments of power

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "instruments of power" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to refer to tools, methods, or mechanisms that exert influence or control in various contexts, such as politics, economics, or social dynamics. Example: "Governments often use propaganda and surveillance as instruments of power to maintain control over their citizens."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

34 human-written examples

Tehran's nuclear program is just one of its instruments of power to destabilize the Middle East.

The New York Times

Despite their somewhat shrunken state these days, newspapers remain instruments of power, for good or ill.

The Guardian - Opinion

Hence it is attacking its critics and beefing up its grip on the instruments of power.

The New York Times

This is an abuse of instruments of power in pursuit of reprisal.

The New York Times

Yanukovych moved quickly to consolidate all instruments of power: the courts, parliament, the prosecutor's office, the media and TV.

The Guardian

In the last five or six years, however, nuclear weapons seem to have regained their legitimacy as instruments of power.

The New Yorker

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

25 human-written examples

For him wealth was above all an instrument of power, of political survival, of personal protection".

The Guardian

"I realized that, at that time, he had no dependable instrument of power," Ludin said.

The New York Times - Magazine

These are the ones who have been Saddam's instrument of power".

The New York Times

Both these dialogue-heavy films also share a view of language as an instrument of power.

The New York Times

If the police department is an instrument of power, then someone — or some collection of people — holds the actual power.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When discussing political strategy or governance, use "instruments of power" to refer to the specific tools or systems a government uses to maintain control or exert influence. This phrase adds a layer of sophistication to your analysis.

Common error

Avoid using "instruments of power" when referring to personal abilities or skills. This phrase is generally reserved for describing the mechanisms through which organizations or states exert influence, not individual capabilities.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "instruments of power" primarily functions as a noun phrase. It refers to the specific tools, methods, or systems used by an entity to exert influence or control. As Ludwig AI points out, this phrase appears in various reputable sources, which show how governments, organizations, and even individuals use these instruments.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Science

20%

Encyclopedias

15%

Less common in

Formal & Business

10%

Wiki

3%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "instruments of power" is a versatile and grammatically sound noun phrase used to describe the tools, methods, or systems employed to exert influence or control. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's commonly found in news, academic, and encyclopedia sources. When using this phrase, remember that it typically refers to mechanisms used by organizations or states, rather than individual skills. Alternatives include "devices of power" or "mechanisms of power". While the phrase maintains a somewhat formal register, its frequency across diverse sources demonstrates its broad applicability. Thus, understanding and using "instruments of power" effectively enhances discussions in politics, governance, and related fields.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

devices of power

Replaces "instruments" with "devices", emphasizing the mechanisms through which power is manifested.

mechanisms of power

Substitutes "instruments" with "mechanisms", focusing on the systems or processes that enable power.

apparatuses of power

Replaces "instruments" with "apparatuses", highlighting the complex structures that facilitate power.

implements of power

Uses "implements" instead of "instruments", stressing the tools used to exercise power.

tools of power

Replaces "instruments" with the more common term "tools", simplifying the expression.

means of control

Shifts the focus from "power" to "control", suggesting the methods used to maintain authority.

levers of authority

Uses a metaphorical term, "levers", to describe how authority is applied.

channels of influence

Emphasizes the pathways through which influence is exerted, rather than direct power.

machinery of dominance

Focuses on the systemic aspects of dominance, rather than individual instruments.

resources for wielding power

Highlights that power is exerted through wealth, army, advisors, alliances and God's will.

FAQs

How can I use "instruments of power" in a sentence?

You can use "instruments of power" to refer to the specific tools, methods, or systems that an entity, such as a government or organization, uses to exert influence or control. For example: "The government used propaganda as one of its "instruments of power"."

What are some alternatives to "instruments of power"?

Alternatives include "devices of power", "mechanisms of power", or "tools of power", depending on the specific context and the nuance you wish to convey.

In what contexts is it appropriate to use the phrase "instruments of power"?

The phrase is most appropriate in discussions of politics, governance, social control, and organizational dynamics, where it accurately describes the means by which authority or influence is maintained and exercised.

What is the difference between "instruments of power" and "means of control"?

While both phrases refer to how authority is maintained, "instruments of power" typically refers to established tools or systems. "Means of control" is a broader term that can include informal or ad hoc methods of maintaining authority. Therefore, "instruments of power" tends to be more formal and structured.