lawful power

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "lawful power" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used in contexts discussing authority, rights, or legal frameworks where power is exercised in accordance with the law. Example: "The government must exercise its lawful power to ensure the safety and security of its citizens."

✓ Grammatically correct

Encyclopedias

News & Media

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

30 human-written examples

Thus, the lawful power of making laws to command whole politic societies of men belongeth so properly unto the same entire societies, that for any prince…to exercise the same of himself…is no better than mere tyranny.

Encyclopedia Britannica

the lawful power of making laws to command whole politic societies of men belongeth so properly unto the same entire societies, that for any prince…to exercise the same of himself…is no better than mere tyranny.

Encyclopedia Britannica

They make nostalgic appeals to a particular notion of the common law, and see officialdom as having no lawful power – at least unless some oath or form of words is sworn so as to establish jurisdiction.

The Guardian - Opinion

The country seems out of control, said Páez, because the government doesn't exert its lawful power.

The New Yorker

Others, however, began to question whether Parliament did have lawful power to legislate over the colonies.

Encyclopedia Britannica

It is to be observed that the conclusions just expressed take away from the states no lawful power.

Cornell University

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

30 human-written examples

She said Trump's administration "agrees with the need to rebuild public confidence in law enforcement" but had serious worries "where consent decrees may reduce the lawful powers of the police department".

Huffington Post

When government acts in excess of its lawful powers, that liberty is at stake".

The New York Times

A state may not exert its concededly lawful powers in such a manner as to impose a direct burden on interstate commerce.

Cornell University

In this case the court-martial had jurisdiction of the person accused and the offense charged, and acted within its lawful powers.

Cornell University

Because the Minister, Alan Milburn, had failed to give persuasive reasons for excluding the press and the public, he had exceeded his lawful powers.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When discussing government actions or legal matters, use "lawful power" to specifically emphasize that the power being exercised is in accordance with the law.

Common error

Be specific about the source and scope of the "lawful power". Avoid vague references that do not clarify which legal framework the power derives from.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "lawful power" functions as a noun phrase, typically acting as the subject or object of a sentence. It describes an authority or capacity that is sanctioned by law. As Ludwig AI indicates, it emphasizes the legitimacy and legality of the power being discussed.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

Academia

33%

News & Media

33%

Encyclopedias

33%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Science

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "lawful power" is a noun phrase used to describe authority that is in accordance with the law. While grammatically correct and usable, as Ludwig AI confirms, its occurrence is relatively rare. It is most frequently found in academic, news, and encyclopedia contexts. When using this phrase, ensure clarity by specifying the source and scope of the power. Alternatives like "legal authority" or "legitimate power" may be appropriate depending on the context.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

legitimate authority

Emphasizes the legitimacy of the power, suggesting it is recognized and accepted.

legal authority

Focuses on the power being derived from and compliant with the law.

rightful power

Highlights the just or deserved nature of the power.

legitimate influence

Suggests a subtler form of power that is morally and ethically sound.

constitutional authority

Specifically refers to power derived from a constitutional framework.

statutory authority

Power granted by statute or legislation.

official capacity

Refers to power exercised by someone in their official role.

recognized jurisdiction

Highlights the area or scope within which power is legitimately exercised.

valid mandate

Emphasizes that the power is based on a clear and legitimate directive.

due authorization

Focuses on the proper granting of power or permission.

FAQs

How can "lawful power" be used in a sentence?

Use "lawful power" to describe actions or authority that are in accordance with established laws. For example, "The government must operate within its "lawful power" to protect citizens' rights".

What are some alternatives to the phrase "lawful power"?

Alternatives include "legal authority", "legitimate power", or "rightful authority". The best choice depends on the specific context.

Is it redundant to say "lawful power and authority"?

While both words refer to legitimate control, using both can emphasize the scope and validity of the control being discussed. Redundancy can be useful for emphasis in certain contexts.

What is the difference between "lawful power" and "legitimate power"?

"Lawful power" specifically denotes power that aligns with established laws, whereas "legitimate power" may also be based on recognized customs, ethics, or principles, even if not codified in law.