religious power

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "religious power" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to refer to the influence or authority that religious institutions or figures hold over individuals or society. Example: "The religious power of the church has shaped the moral values of the community for centuries."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

51 human-written examples

The intense scrutiny of people's love lives is a sure sign of the exercise of religious power.

The Guardian - Opinion

In practice, however, merging constitutionally enshrined religious power with existing civil and criminal law has been difficult.

The New York Times

And as for any specifically religious power in this text, McKenzie, whatever his personal beliefs, writes as a methodological atheist.

The New York Times - Books

The combination of civil and religious power in the hands of the ecumenical patriarchate and the upper reaches of the hierarchy prompted furious competition for high office.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Emigrating to Heidelberg, Bonald was soon condemned by the revolutionary Directory for his highly royalist Théorie du pouvoir politique et religieux (1796; "Theory of Political and Religious Power").

Encyclopedia Britannica

It is not about the absence of religion but the absence of religious power, a freedom from patriarchal straightjackets that might stifle our lives, dreams and aspirations.

The Guardian - Opinion

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

9 human-written examples

But whereas elsewhere religious power-holders persecute atheists and people of other faiths, here, the Communist party-state goes after anyone who tries to organise along religious lines without its approval, be they Christians or Falun Gong.

The Guardian - Opinion

However, such alignment between political and religious powers has drawn suspicion.

The Guardian

Wills finds scant warrant for the Roman Catholic priesthood, and its religious powers, in the books of the New Testament.

The New York Times - Books

Pilgrimage in Hinduism, as in other religions, is the practice of journeying to sites where religious powers, knowledge, or experience are deemed especially accessible.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Many Israelis think that the really explosive issue for Mr. Barak may not be his peace proposals, but his challenge to Israel's religious powers.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When discussing "religious power", be specific about the source and nature of that power. Is it political influence, moral authority, or control over institutions?

Common error

Don't assume that "religious power" is always negative. It can also be a force for positive social change and community building.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "religious power" functions primarily as a noun phrase. It typically serves as the subject or object of a sentence, denoting the influence, authority, or control exerted by religious institutions, leaders, or beliefs. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and usability.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

35%

Encyclopedias

25%

Science

15%

Less common in

Wiki

10%

Formal & Business

10%

Reference

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "religious power" is a grammatically sound and frequently used noun phrase that describes the influence wielded by religious entities. Ludwig AI confirms that the term is acceptable for usage. This power manifests in diverse forms across news, encyclopedias, and academic contexts. Related phrases include "spiritual authority" and "ecclesiastical authority". When using the phrase, specificity is key to avoid generalizations. The term itself carries a neutral tone, but the impact of "religious power" can be both positive and negative. Remember to assess the source and nature of this power in your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

spiritual authority

Emphasizes the authority derived from spiritual or divine sources, rather than institutional control.

sacred authority

Implies authority derived from something considered holy or divine.

ecclesiastical authority

Specifically refers to the authority held within a church or other religious organization.

theocratic rule

Indicates a system of government where religious leaders hold power.

spiritual leadership

Focuses on the guiding role and authority within a religious context.

clerical influence

Highlights the sway or impact that clergy members have on individuals or society.

faith-based influence

Focuses on the impact and persuasion stemming from religious beliefs.

divine right

Suggests a belief that power is granted by a deity.

religious control

Highlights the aspect of dominance and regulation exerted by religious entities.

institutional religion's dominance

Highlights the control exerted by organized religious bodies.

FAQs

How is "religious power" exercised in society?

Religious power can be exerted through various means, including influencing laws and policies, shaping moral values, controlling institutions, and mobilizing communities. The specifics vary depending on the religion, its organizational structure, and the socio-political context.

What are some synonyms for "religious power"?

You can use alternatives like "spiritual authority", "ecclesiastical authority", or "clerical influence" depending on the specific context.

How does "religious power" differ from spiritual influence?

"Religious power" often implies institutional control and authority, while spiritual influence focuses more on personal impact and moral guidance. One is about official capacity, and the other is more personal.

Is "religious power" always a negative force?

Not necessarily. While "religious power" can be abused, it can also be used to promote social justice, provide charitable services, and offer moral guidance within a community.