power base

USAGE SUMMARY

"power base" is a correct and commonly used phrase in written English.
It refers to a person's or group's source of power or influence. This can include factors such as wealth, status, connections, or support from a particular group or community. Example: "The CEO's power base allowed her to easily secure funding for the company's expansion plans."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

From what power base?

The New York Times

The potential power base is expanding.

The New York Times - Books

His power base is beginning to erode.

The Economist

Their power base may soon erode further.

The New York Times

"That was his power base," he said.

The New Yorker

Mr Saleh's power base remains strong.

The Economist

Its power base in Houston seemed secure.

The New York Times

Organizations provide a power base for individuals.

Harvard Business Review

"With Shaq's power base, I think you need a Ricky Mahorn-style power base," Harter said.

The New York Times - Sports

He concentrates, instead, on enhancing his power base.

The Guardian - Opinion

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

1 human-written examples

Mrs Clinton still has a power-base in the Senate.

The Economist

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing shifts in power, specify whether a "power base" is expanding, eroding, or remaining stable to provide a clearer picture of the situation.

Common error

Avoid using "power source" when you actually mean "power base". "Power source" refers to the origin of energy, while "power base" refers to the foundation of support and influence for a person or group.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "power base" functions primarily as a noun phrase. It identifies the source or foundation of a person's or organization's influence and authority. As Ludwig AI confirms, this phrase is commonly used, referring to the support system or resources that enable someone to wield power.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

71%

Formal & Business

11%

Wiki

7%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

1%

Science

4%

Reference

6%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "power base" is a common and grammatically sound noun phrase that refers to the source of a person's or organization's power or influence. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is widely used across various contexts, particularly in news and media. While it can be used in both formal and informal settings, it's important not to confuse it with similar terms like "power source". The related phrases provide alternative ways to express the concept of influence and support. Understanding the nuances of "power base" can enhance the clarity and precision of your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

power center

Highlights a specific location or group where significant power is concentrated.

foundation of authority

Stresses the underlying basis upon which power and control are built.

source of influence

Focuses on the ability to affect decisions or actions, rather than the foundational support.

core constituency

Refers to the primary group of supporters or voters for a politician or party.

support network

Emphasizes the interconnected group of people providing assistance and encouragement.

seat of power

Emphasizes a location symbolizing or housing authority.

sphere of influence

Highlights the area or domain where power or authority is exerted.

area of control

Highlights the extent to which someone holds or have command.

political stronghold

Specifically denotes a region or area where political control is firmly established.

base of operations

Focuses on a physical or strategic location from which activities are coordinated.

FAQs

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

You can use "power base" to describe the source of someone's influence, such as "His "power base" within the party allowed him to push through the legislation".

What's a good alternative to "power base"?

Depending on the context, you can use alternatives like "source of influence", "support network", or "sphere of influence".

Is it correct to say someone's "power base" is eroding?

Yes, it's perfectly correct. The examples from Ludwig show phrases like "His "power base" is beginning to erode" and "Their "power base" may soon erode further" are commonly used.

What's the difference between "power base" and "power center"?

"Power base" refers to the foundation of support that someone has, while "power center" refers to a location or group where power is concentrated. They are closely related, but not interchangeable.