power imbalance

USAGE SUMMARY

"power imbalance" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
You can use it to describe an unequal distribution of power between two entities. For example: "The power imbalance between the employer and employee caused significant tensions in the workplace."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

57 human-written examples

There is an unpleasant power imbalance involved.

The Guardian

Less examined are the intellectual consequences of the power imbalance.

The Guardian - Opinion

With so profound a power imbalance, a student can be vulnerable to all sorts of pressure.

The New York Times - Magazine

Alongside this power imbalance is a glaring iniquity in pay scales.

The Guardian - Music

With one party able to evict at any time, the power imbalance becomes absurd.

The Guardian - Opinion

Absolutists may not like it, but this power imbalance must enter into the calculation.

The Guardian - Opinion

If you're sitting, he'll use it, the visual power imbalance, and squash you".

The New Yorker

And, remember, my disdain toward you isn't about the so-called power imbalance between us.

The New Yorker

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

3 human-written examples

Reducing the power-imbalance means workers get higher wages and better conditions than they otherwise would.

The Guardian - Opinion

The whole power-imbalance of fantastical, almost mythical sexual situations is what she did best.

Huffington Post

However, it may not realign power-imbalance between patients and their health care team.

BMC Family Practice

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When discussing "power imbalance", be specific about the context and the sources of power involved. For instance, specify whether it's economic, social, or political power that is imbalanced.

Common error

Avoid automatically assuming that a "power imbalance" signifies malicious intent. While it can create opportunities for abuse, it doesn't inherently mean that one party is exploiting the other. Sometimes, a power differential is simply a feature of a specific relationship or situation.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "power imbalance" functions primarily as a noun phrase, typically serving as the subject or object of a sentence. It identifies a situation where there is an unequal distribution of power between two or more entities. Ludwig confirms this through its examples.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

45%

Science

35%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

3%

Wiki

2%

Reference

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "power imbalance" effectively describes situations where influence and authority are not equally distributed. As indicated by Ludwig AI, it is grammatically correct and frequently used across various domains, including news, science, and business. Recognizing and addressing these imbalances is crucial in fostering fairer and more equitable relationships and systems. When using the phrase, it's beneficial to specify the type of power at play and avoid assumptions about malicious intent. Consider alternatives like "disparity in power" or "inequality of power" to add nuance to your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

disparity in power

Replaces "imbalance" with "disparity", emphasizing the difference in power levels.

inequality of power

Substitutes "imbalance" with "inequality", highlighting the unfair distribution of power.

asymmetry of power

Replaces "imbalance" with "asymmetry", focusing on the lack of balance in the power dynamic.

unequal power dynamic

Focuses on the "power dynamic" being unequal, rather than a static imbalance.

imbalance of authority

Specifies that the imbalance is related to "authority" rather than general power.

disproportionate influence

Highlights the "influence" being disproportionately held by one party.

advantageous position

Focuses on one party holding a position of "advantage" over another.

uneven playing field

Uses a metaphor to describe the "uneven" distribution of power.

hierarchy of control

Emphasizes a "hierarchy" where control is unevenly distributed.

lack of parity

Highlights the "lack of parity" in terms of influence or control.

FAQs

How can "power imbalance" be created in the workplace?

A "power imbalance" in the workplace can arise from hierarchical structures, differences in experience, access to resources, or even social dynamics. Addressing these imbalances often requires implementing fair policies, promoting open communication, and fostering a culture of respect.

What are some synonyms for "power imbalance"?

Alternatives to "power imbalance" include "disparity in power", "inequality of power", or "asymmetry of power". The best choice depends on the specific nuance you want to convey.

How does "power imbalance" affect consent?

A "power imbalance" can compromise an individual's ability to freely consent. When one party holds significantly more power (e.g., an employer over an employee), it can create coercion or pressure, making genuine consent difficult to obtain.

What are the signs of "power imbalance" in a relationship?

Signs of "power imbalance" in a relationship include one partner making all the decisions, controlling finances, consistently dismissing the other's opinions, or using intimidation tactics. Healthy relationships strive for a more equitable distribution of power.