power that be

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "the powers that be" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
You can use it to refer to people with authority or influence in a certain situation, organization, or society. For example, "Decisions about the new bridge were made by the powers that be in the city council."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

6 human-written examples

That would be up to the power that be letting them.

Forbes

And what of the Almighty power that be?

Huffington Post

It was a whole 'nother power that be so what we can do now is we can start coming together and figuring out our own problems and home solutions.

Vice

The yam, he explains, is "the power that be" -- a social and political status that should be used for good, like Richard Pryor did with his merciless comic material addressing race.

Los Angeles Times

However, it is still far greater than the power that be achieved by each study individually – at a minor allele frequency of 20% and risk ratio of 1.2, the corresponding power would be <5% for a sample size of approximately 1,000 carriers.

Breast Cancer Research

Messages beamed upon building facades included "Equal repairs for all" and "Let's fight the power that be". The group also projected "How can a museum be an ally?" onto the Brooklyn Museum.

The New York Times - Arts

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

54 human-written examples

And power that is lopsided.

The Guardian - Music

Budgetary power, that is — the kind that counts.

The New Yorker

For the staunch secularists in power that was too much.

The New York Times

Electrical power that is.

Forbes

"That is a power that is long defunct," said Schwinn.

Huffington Post

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "power that be" to refer to an abstract concept of authority or influence, rather than specific individuals, to maintain a degree of detachment or objectivity in your writing.

Common error

Avoid using "power that be" excessively in highly formal or academic writing. Opt for more precise and professional terms like "governing bodies" or "decision-makers" to enhance clarity and credibility.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "power that be" functions as a noun phrase, typically acting as the subject or object of a sentence. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and frequent use in denoting authority.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

70%

Science

15%

Formal & Business

5%

Less common in

Wiki

3%

Encyclopedias

3%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "power that be" correctly identifies those in positions of authority or influence. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical validity and common usage, especially in news and media. While not incorrect, using alternatives like "governing authorities" or "decision-makers" may improve clarity in formal writing. Be aware of the connotations of distance or resignation associated with "power that be", and ensure it aligns with your intended tone. Overusing the phrase may be perceived as informal or vague in highly formal or academic settings.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

those in control

A more direct and less figurative way of indicating the individuals or groups who have authority.

the decision-makers

Highlights the role of those who are responsible for making important choices.

the leadership

Emphasizes the guiding role of those who are in charge.

governing authorities

Replaces the abstract "power that be" with a more concrete term for those in charge.

the influentials

Focuses on the capacity to affect events or decisions, rather than formal authority.

the establishment

Implies a traditional or conservative power structure.

ruling class

Suggests a social hierarchy where a specific group holds significant control.

the administration

Specifically refers to the executive branch of government or those managing an organization.

the upper echelons

Refers to the higher levels within an organization or system.

controlling faction

Suggests a group exerting power, potentially in a competitive or manipulative context.

FAQs

What does "power that be" mean?

The phrase "power that be" generally refers to the person or group of people who hold authority or control in a particular situation, organization, or society. It's often used to describe those in positions of influence.

How can I use the phrase "power that be" in a sentence?

You might say, "The plans were approved by the "governing authorities"", or "We need to convince the "decision-makers" of the project's value."

Is "power that be" a formal or informal expression?

While grammatically correct, "power that be" leans towards a more neutral to slightly informal register. In highly formal contexts, it may be preferable to use more direct terms like "authorities" or "leadership".

What are some alternatives to "power that be"?

Depending on the specific context, you could use phrases like "governing authorities", "those in control", or "the establishment" to convey a similar meaning.