latent power

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "latent power" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe potential energy or abilities that are not currently active or visible but can be realized or activated under certain conditions. Example: "The latent power of the community was evident when they united for a common cause, demonstrating their ability to effect change."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

39 human-written examples

Meanwhile White pins his hopes on the latent power of the fianchettoed bishop.

The Guardian - Sport

Kallis and Gibbs, of course, have as much latent power as any batsmen in the world.

The Guardian - Sport

They loom like shaggy mountains, and an eerie glow makes them shimmer with latent power.

The New York Times

Egypt has great potential because of the latent power of its human capital.

The New York Times

In his first presentation, Jim Diers explains what asset based community development is, and the latent power of communities.

The Guardian

This approach to instil transparency has latent power to improve citizen access to data and strengthen the work of investigative journalists.

The Guardian

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

19 human-written examples

This find leads her to discover her own latent powers as a writer and as a person in her own right.

Encyclopedia Britannica

So there is a case for hoping that the disappearance of the hereditary peers will give the surviving Lords greater confidence to exercise the latent powers they are too diffident to exercise at present.

The Economist

Rather than trying to chronicle decades' worth of material in a relatively short space, as the novellas do, they make good use of the limits and special economies of the short story form – its latent powers of omission, suggestion, surprise – to get at their subjects.

The Guardian - Books

Grad school might be best understood as what George Eliot, at the end of "Middlemarch," calls a "fragment of a life," and> the fragment of a life, however typical, is not the sample of an even web: promises may not be kept, and an ardent outset may be followed by declension; latent powers may find their long-waited opportunity; a past error may urge a grand retrieval.

The New Yorker

Grad school might be best understood as what George Eliot, at the end of "Middlemarch," calls a "fragment of a life," and the fragment of a life, however typical, is not the sample of an even web: promises may not be kept, and an ardent outset may be followed by declension; latent powers may find their long-waited opportunity; a past error may urge a grand retrieval.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Consider replacing "latent power" with more descriptive terms if the specific nature of the power is known. This can improve clarity and impact.

Common error

Avoid using "latent power" as a catch-all phrase for any kind of potential. Specify what kind of power you're referring to; for example, "latent economic power" or "latent creative power" for greater clarity.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "latent power" functions as an adjective-noun combination. "Latent" modifies "power", indicating that the power is present but not yet active or visible. As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase is correct and usable in English.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Science

20%

Encyclopedias

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

7%

Wiki

7%

Social Media

6%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "latent power" is a grammatically correct and commonly used expression to describe hidden or untapped potential. As Ludwig AI states, it is usable in written English. Its frequency across various contexts, including news, science, and encyclopedias, suggests its versatility. When using the phrase, focus on clearly identifying the source and potential triggers of the "latent power" for maximum impact. Consider alternatives like "dormant potential" or "hidden strength" for nuanced expression.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

dormant potential

Emphasizes the untapped potential that is currently inactive.

hidden strength

Focuses on the concealed capacity for strength or force.

untapped potential

Highlights the potential that has not yet been utilized.

underlying capacity

Stresses the foundational ability or capability.

inherent capability

Points to the natural, built-in ability.

potential energy

Refers to stored energy that can be released.

reserve capacity

Indicates available but unused capacity.

untapped resource

Highlights a resource that is available but not yet exploited.

concealed ability

Focuses on the hidden nature of the ability.

undeveloped strength

Emphasizes the lack of development in the strength.

FAQs

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

You can use "latent power" to describe a hidden or untapped potential. For example, "The community discovered its "latent power" when it organized to improve local schools."

What are some synonyms for "latent power"?

Alternatives to "latent power" include "dormant potential", "hidden strength", or "untapped potential". The best choice depends on the specific context.

Is it correct to say "latent powers" instead of "latent power"?

Yes, "latent powers" is also correct, especially when referring to multiple abilities or capabilities. Both "latent power" and "latent powers" are grammatically acceptable.

What's the difference between "latent power" and "potential energy"?

"Latent power" generally refers to a hidden or undeveloped ability or capacity, while "potential energy" specifically refers to stored energy that can be converted into other forms of energy. The terms are not interchangeable.