powerful enough to

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "powerful enough to" is correct and commonly used in written English.
It is typically used to describe something or someone that has a strong or significant impact or ability. Example: "The new technology was powerful enough to completely revolutionize the industry." In this sentence, "powerful enough to" is used to illustrate the significant impact that the new technology had on the industry.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Make sure that your power supply is powerful enough to handle all of your components.

WikiHow

This can even be powerful enough to power a small motor or turn a pinwheel.

WikiHow

The virus power pack isn't yet powerful enough to run your cell phone or iPod.

Science Magazine

In other words, anything powerful enough to help also has the power to harm.

The Economist

These blows are powerful enough to kill wolves.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Eventually they created instruments powerful enough to melt iron.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Infra-red is not powerful enough to do this.

The Economist

It's powerful enough to occasionally edit photos and videos.

The New York Times - Tech

The governments were powerful enough to win, on both fronts.

The Economist

The shot isn't powerful enough to trouble Bardsley, though.

The Guardian - Sport

They were not powerful enough to combat the conservative forces.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing the capacity of a device or system, use "powerful enough to" to clearly indicate its capabilities in relation to specific tasks. For example, "The new processor is "powerful enough to" handle complex simulations".

Common error

Avoid using "powerful enough to" when the actual performance is questionable or not fully supported by evidence. Overstating capabilities can lead to credibility issues.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "powerful enough to" functions as an adjectival modifier that describes a subject's capacity or ability to perform a specific action or achieve a particular outcome. It indicates that the subject possesses the requisite strength, force, or capability. Ludwig AI confirms that it's correct and commonly used.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

41%

Science

38%

Encyclopedias

8%

Less common in

Wiki

5%

Formal & Business

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "powerful enough to" is a common and grammatically correct way to express that something possesses the necessary strength, capability, or influence to achieve a specific result. Ludwig AI confirms that this phrase is frequently used across diverse contexts, including news, science, and encyclopedias. While alternatives such as "forceful enough to" and "strong enough to" exist, "powerful enough to" often conveys a greater degree of impact or influence. When using this phrase, ensure that the stated capability is accurate and supported by evidence. Avoid overstating capabilities to maintain credibility. The linguistic analysis reveals that its function is to modify a subject, its purpose is to communicate capacity, and its register is neutral.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

forceful enough to

Similar in meaning, emphasizes strength and impact, with focus on exerted force.

strong enough to

A more general term indicating adequate physical or metaphorical strength.

mighty enough to

Suggests a great or impressive strength or power sufficient for a specific task.

influential enough to

Emphasizes the capacity to affect or persuade, often in a non-physical context.

effective enough to

Highlights the ability to produce a desired or intended result.

dynamic enough to

Implies that something has sufficient energy to accomplish an action or goal.

compelling enough to

Indicates the power to convince or attract someone to a specific action or belief.

intense enough to

Emphasizes the degree of concentration, strength, or force.

substantial enough to

Refers to having adequate importance, size or worth to achieve an aim.

energetic enough to

Highlights the capacity to perform an action due to the presence of high activity or vitality.

FAQs

How can I use "powerful enough to" in a sentence?

Use "powerful enough to" to describe something that has the necessary strength, ability, or capacity to achieve a particular outcome. For example, "The engine is "powerful enough to" propel the boat upstream".

What are some alternatives to "powerful enough to"?

You can use alternatives like "forceful enough to", "strong enough to", or "influential enough to", depending on the specific context and the nuance you want to convey.

Is it correct to say "enough powerful to" instead of "powerful enough to"?

No, the correct phrasing is "powerful enough to". The adjective "powerful" precedes "enough" in this construction. Saying "enough powerful to" is grammatically incorrect.

What is the difference between "powerful enough to" and "strong enough to"?

While both phrases indicate capability, "powerful enough to" often implies a greater degree of force or impact than "strong enough to". "Strong enough to" typically refers to basic strength or resilience, while "powerful enough to" suggests the capacity to exert significant influence or effect.