power to determine

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "power to determine" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used in contexts where someone or something has the authority or ability to make decisions or judgments. Example: "The committee has the power to determine the eligibility of applicants for the scholarship."

✓ Grammatically correct

Encyclopedia

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

Electorates have only a limited power to determine government policies.

Encyclopedia Britannica

I think local authorities should have the power to determine the composition of their high streets.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

The panel's leader is expected to wield broad power to determine its direction and findings.

The New York Times

The power to determine rests with the two Houses, and there is no other constitutional tribunal".

The New York Times

The king acquired power to determine the life and death of all his people.

Encyclopedia Britannica

"That discretion includes the power to determine whether an item should be replaced rather than repaired".

The New York Times

"The government has no power to determine what is a cult," Mr. Teng wrote on Twitter.

The New York Times

This deal further consolidates Amazon's power to determine which authors get exposure for their work.

The New York Times

Well, Your Honor, I think they have the plenary power to determine the manner of the selection.

The New York Times

Yes, they said, it was true that a handful of states had the power to determine the winner.

The New Yorker

As a sovereign government, Tsipras's administration will have the power to determine its own tax and spending policies.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "power to determine", ensure the subject possessing the power is clearly identified to avoid ambiguity. For example, specify "the government has the power to determine" rather than simply stating "there is power to determine".

Common error

Avoid using "power to determine" when the influence is merely suggestive or advisory. The phrase implies a definitive authority, so reserve it for situations where the subject truly has the final say.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "power to determine" functions as a noun phrase, indicating the capacity or authority to make a decision or influence an outcome. As evidenced by Ludwig, it describes who or what holds the ability to decide.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

45%

Science

20%

Encyclopedias

15%

Less common in

Formal & Business

10%

Wiki

5%

Reference

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "power to determine" is a grammatically sound and frequently used expression that signifies the authority or capacity to make a decision. Ludwig AI confirms its validity and offers relevant examples across various domains, ranging from news and media to scientific and encyclopedic contexts. The phrase typically appears in neutral to professional registers, emphasizing agency and decision-making capabilities. While alternatives such as "authority to decide" exist, "power to determine" effectively conveys the scope and influence associated with the ability to shape outcomes.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

authority to decide

Replaces "power" with "authority", emphasizing the legitimacy and right to make a decision.

right to establish

Focuses on the prerogative and entitlement to set or create something.

capability to influence

Highlights the ability to affect or change something, rather than directly decide.

ability to control

Emphasizes the capacity to manage or direct something.

discretion to choose

Underscores the freedom and judgment in selecting from options.

prerogative to resolve

Highlights the special right or privilege to settle or find a solution.

license to govern

Emphasizes the permission or authorization to rule or manage.

jurisdiction to adjudicate

Focuses on the legal authority to judge or decide a case.

option to shape

Highlights the choice to influence the form or character of something.

influence over outcome

Emphasizes the impact on a result, rather than direct control over the decision-making process.

FAQs

How can I use "power to determine" in a sentence?

You can use "power to determine" to indicate authority or ability to make a final decision. For example: "The board has the "power to determine" the company's future strategy."

What are some alternatives to "power to determine"?

Alternatives include "authority to decide", "right to establish", or "capability to influence", depending on the specific context.

Is it more formal to say "power to determine" or "ability to decide"?

"Power to determine" often carries a slightly more formal and authoritative tone compared to "ability to decide". The best choice depends on the context and the desired level of formality.

What's the difference between "power to determine" and "responsibility to determine"?

"Power to determine" implies authority and control, while "responsibility to determine" suggests a duty or obligation to make a decision. The first focuses on the capacity, the second on the obligation.