of possessing power

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "of possessing power" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing the concept of having control, authority, or influence over something or someone. Example: "The implications of possessing power can lead to both positive and negative outcomes in society."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

1 human-written examples

My Songhay friends from the Republic of Niger, many of whom are masters of practical wisdom, are very conscious of the personal challenges and obligations of possessing power.

Huffington Post

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

59 human-written examples

To identify politics with the exercise of, and struggle to possess, power is to do away with politics.

Johns Hopkins University

On the act-based conception, propositions do not possess the power to represent, but rather, are the types of acts that we are able to perform in virtue of possessing this power ourselves.

University of Chicago

Our silicon-polymer hybrid nanobeam microcavities show great promise in constructing small-sized all-optical devices or circuits with advantages of possessing low-power and ultrafast speed simultaneously.

Photonics and Nanostructures - Fundamentals and Applications

She laughs loudly at this idea of possessing supernatural powers, laughs so hard her battered body shakes in pain.

Los Angeles Times

Precisely because of possessing extraordinary symbolic power, celebrated icons of art and antiquity have increasingly become objects not just of lunatic vandalism but of terrorist attack.

The New Yorker

It logically flows from this, that the question "Who possesses power?" is of little importance today.

Huffington Post

The devil moves in the various versions of this myth from the companion to the antagonist of God, possessing the power to challenge the deity.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Rock and roll stars are themselves a kind of supermen, possessed of powers, beyond those of any ordinary mortal, that they use to save humanity from the horrors of ordinary life.

The New Yorker

Insects are cheaper slave-labour than humans and, as Goulson observes, bumblebees possess "powers of perception and learning that often put us mammals to shame".

The Guardian - Books

If it has not the same powers, does it possess powers of any kind?

Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "of possessing power", ensure the context clearly indicates what kind of power is being discussed (e.g., political, financial, personal). Specificity enhances clarity and avoids ambiguity.

Common error

Avoid using "of possessing power" in contexts where the nature of the power is unclear. Always provide sufficient context to specify what type of power is being referenced to prevent misinterpretations.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "of possessing power" functions as a prepositional phrase, typically modifying a noun or verb. It describes a state or condition related to having control or authority. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's a usable phrase in written English.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

32%

Academia

30%

Science

20%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

8%

Wiki

6%

Formal & Business

4%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "of possessing power" is a grammatically correct prepositional phrase used to describe the state of having control or influence. While Ludwig AI validates its usability, it's relatively rare in occurrence. It appears most frequently in News & Media and Academic contexts, indicating a neutral to formal register. When using this phrase, ensure the context clearly defines the nature of the power being discussed to avoid ambiguity. Consider alternatives such as "of having authority" or "of wielding influence" depending on the specific nuance you wish to convey.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

of having authority

Focuses on the formal right to control or command.

of wielding influence

Emphasizes the subtle or indirect power to affect something.

of exerting control

Highlights the act of actively managing or directing.

of commanding resources

Stresses the ability to use available assets effectively.

of holding sway

Suggests a dominant or persuasive power.

of exercising dominion

Implies supreme authority or ownership.

of being in charge

A more informal way of saying someone has control.

of governing effectively

Highlights competence in leadership and management.

of running the show

An idiomatic way of saying someone is in control.

with the capacity to lead

Focuses on the inherent ability to guide and inspire.

FAQs

How can I rephrase "of possessing power" to sound more formal?

You can use alternatives such as "of having authority" or "of exercising dominion" to achieve a more formal tone.

Is "of possessing power" grammatically correct?

Yes, the phrase "of possessing power" is grammatically correct. It functions as a prepositional phrase modifying a noun or verb, indicating the state of having control or influence.

What's the difference between "of possessing power" and "of having power"?

While both phrases are similar, "of possessing power" emphasizes a more active or concrete ownership of power, whereas "of having power" can be more general and abstract.

In what contexts is it appropriate to use "of possessing power"?

It is suitable in contexts discussing political influence, personal capabilities, or any situation where control or authority is a key element. For example, "The implications "of possessing power" can lead to both positive and negative outcomes in society."