real power

USAGE SUMMARY

"real power" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to describe actual authority that is being exercised. For example: "The real power lies with the council, who make all the decisions."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

"It's not real power.

The New York Times

There's real power in anger".

Independent

Nevertheless, it lacked real power.

Encyclopedia Britannica

They had real power.

The New York Times

Real power is passive.

The Guardian

That is real power.

The New York Times

I represent real power.

The Washington Post

Why should men of real power bother?

The New Yorker

Criticism has no real power, only influence.

The New York Times - Books

Perhaps their anonymity is their real power.

The New York Times

That word has real power.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When discussing abstract concepts, use "real power" to distinguish genuine authority from perceived or superficial influence. This adds clarity and precision to your writing.

Common error

Avoid using "real power" when you mean potential or theoretical power. "Real power" implies that the authority is currently being exercised, not just that it exists as a possibility.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "real power" functions as a noun phrase, typically serving as the subject or object of a sentence. It identifies and emphasizes the existence of actual and effective authority or control. Ludwig AI confirms that this phrase is grammatically correct and usable in written English.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

78%

Wiki

12%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

5%

Science

3%

Academia

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "real power" effectively conveys the idea of actual authority or influence, distinguishing it from superficial or potential power. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's grammatically sound and widely used across diverse contexts, particularly in News & Media. The phrase's neutral register makes it suitable for both formal and informal communication. For expressing similar ideas, alternatives like "genuine authority", "true influence", and "actual control" offer nuanced variations. Remember to use "real power" to denote actively exercised authority, avoiding its confusion with potential or theoretical power.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

genuine authority

Emphasizes the legitimacy and authenticity of the power.

true influence

Highlights the ability to affect decisions or actions.

actual control

Focuses on the practical ability to direct or manage something.

ultimate command

Suggests the highest level of authority and control.

effective dominance

Indicates a position of superior strength or influence that produces results.

tangible impact

Highlights the measurable effects of the power.

substantive force

Emphasizes the weight and significance of the power.

practical effect

Focuses on the real-world consequences of having power.

considerable leverage

Suggests the ability to use power to gain an advantage.

effective agency

Highlights the capacity to act independently and make choices that shape outcomes.

FAQs

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

You can use "real power" to describe actual authority or influence that is being exerted. For example: "The CEO holds the "real power" in the company's strategic decisions."

What's a good alternative to saying "real power"?

Depending on the context, you could use alternatives like "genuine authority", "true influence", or "actual control".

Is "real power" the same as "potential power"?

No, "real power" refers to power that is currently being exercised, while "potential power" indicates power that exists but is not necessarily being used.

In what contexts is it appropriate to use the phrase "real power"?

The phrase "real power" is suitable in contexts discussing politics, business, social dynamics, or any situation where authority or influence is a key factor. It's often used to clarify where the true decision-making authority lies.