lust for power

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "lust for power" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe an intense desire or craving for control, authority, or influence, often in a negative context. Example: "The politician's lust for power led him to make unethical decisions that harmed the community."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Irrational lust for power?

The Guardian - Opinion

Lust for power?

The Guardian - TV & Radio

He showed no lust for power.

The New York Times

Poppea's lust for power, and plain old lust, win out.

The New York Times - Arts

Maybe it's the lust for power that drives them to fulfil their evolutionary destiny.

The Economist

Maybe it's the lust for power that drives them to fulfill their evolutionary destiny.

The Economist

He entered politics with a lust for power in a country without a soul.

The New York Times

In effect, his mighty lust for power clashed with his mighty artistic inclinations and abilities.

The New Yorker

Neither will it expel the malignant influence of lust for power.

The Washington Post

His protagonists are nearly overwhelmed by fear and anguish, even their own lust for power.

The New York Times

Lust for power also seems an incomplete explanation for Mao's launching of the Cultural Revolution.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "lust for power", consider the negative connotations. It often implies unethical or excessive ambition. Use it when you want to emphasize the potentially destructive nature of a strong desire for control.

Common error

Avoid using "lust for power" when a simple desire for achievement or leadership is meant. Opt for neutral alternatives like "ambition for power" or "drive for success" to avoid misrepresenting the motivation.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "lust for power" functions primarily as a noun phrase. Ludwig's examples show it often acts as the subject or object of a sentence, describing a strong craving for control, as seen in the examples.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

80%

Encyclopedias

10%

Wiki

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Science

0%

Academia

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "lust for power" is a grammatically correct and frequently used phrase that describes an intense and often negative desire for control and authority. Ludwig AI confirms its common usage in news media, encyclopedias, and wiki sources. When employing this phrase, be mindful of its connotations, as it often implies unethical or excessive ambition. If a more neutral tone is desired, alternatives like "ambition for power" or "desire for control" may be more appropriate. Always consider the context to ensure the phrase accurately reflects the intended meaning.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

Ambition for power

Emphasizes a goal-oriented drive towards gaining power; slightly less negative connotation.

Drive for power

Focuses on the internal force pushing someone to seek power; neutral connotation.

Thirst for control

Emphasizes the need to manage situations or people; similar intensity to lust.

Aspiration for power

Suggests a hope or dream of attaining power; implies a longer-term goal.

Craving for supremacy

Focuses on the desire to be superior or unmatched; strong and potentially negative connotation.

Passion for power

Highlights the intense emotional investment in acquiring power; can be positive or negative.

Quest for power

Implies a dedicated journey or search to obtain power; suggests a prolonged effort.

Desire for dominance

Highlights the craving to be in control; has a slightly broader scope than just power.

Yearning for authority

Focuses on the longing for recognized power and leadership; less forceful than lust.

Appetite for influence

Highlights the hunger to affect or sway decisions; a more subtle form of seeking power.

FAQs

How can I use "lust for power" in a sentence?

The phrase "lust for power" typically describes an intense and often corrupting desire for control or authority. For example: "The dictator's "lust for power" led him to suppress all dissent."

What are some alternatives to "lust for power"?

Depending on the context, you can use alternatives such as "ambition for power", "desire for control", or "thirst for authority".

Is it always negative to have a "lust for power"?

While "lust for power" often carries negative connotations suggesting unethical or ruthless behavior, it can also describe a strong motivation to achieve significant influence or leadership. The context determines the interpretation.

What is the difference between "desire for power" and "lust for power"?

"Desire for power" is a more neutral term indicating a general wish to have control or influence. "Lust for power" implies a more intense, almost obsessive craving that can lead to negative actions.