retains power

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "retains power" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe someone or something that continues to hold authority, influence, or control over a situation or group. Example: "Despite the challenges faced, the leader retains power and continues to guide the organization towards its goals."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

38 human-written examples

He was eventually forced out of that job and allied with a less powerful Satmar faction, but one that retains power.

The New York Times

"I hope he retains power in Gujarat".

The New York Times

Ever fewer of us countenance that faith today, but it retains power even in decline.

The New Yorker

The president who once aspired to run for a third term retains power, but it is draining away.

The Economist

Still, the president retains power to identify people as enemy combatants and treat them like enemies without much due process.

The New York Times

The state retains power to remove the company's authority to award degrees should standards start to slip.

The Economist

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

22 human-written examples

A11 Party Retains Power in Hungary A Socialist-led coalition won the general election, becoming the first government to retain power since the fall of Communism in 1989.

The New York Times

3. Will Modi retain power?

The Washington Post

Although unfashionable, they still retain power.

Independent

Qing desire to retain power?

Harvard University

In those, elders retain power and control".

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "retains power", ensure the subject has demonstrably maintained their influence or control, not just nominally held a title.

Common error

Don't assume that someone "retains power" simply because they hold a position. Provide evidence or context showing how their authority or influence is still effective.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "retains power" functions primarily as a verb phrase, typically following a noun or pronoun that acts as the subject. It describes the action of maintaining control, authority, or influence. Examples from Ludwig illustrate this usage in diverse contexts such as politics, economics, and even battery technology.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

62%

Academia

19%

Encyclopedias

8%

Less common in

Science

8%

HuffPost

3%

Vice

3%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "retains power" is a grammatically sound and frequently employed expression, as validated by Ludwig. It's commonly found in contexts related to news, academia, and encyclopedias, signifying the continuation of authority, control, or influence. Ludwig AI confirms that the phrase is correct and usable in written English. While "retains power" is generally neutral, it leans toward formal usage. When using this phrase, ensure you provide context and evidence to support the claim that power is actually being maintained, rather than simply assumed. Alternatives such as "maintains control" or "preserves authority" can offer slightly different nuances. Be cautious of assuming power retention based solely on title or position.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

maintains control

This alternative suggests a continuous and active effort to keep control.

preserves authority

This phrase emphasizes the preservation of legitimate influence and command.

holds onto power

This option indicates an effort to keep or maintain one's position of influence.

keeps its influence

This alternative highlights the continuation of having an effect on someone or something.

remains in charge

This expression indicates that someone continues to be the person with control or responsibility.

exercises continued authority

Emphasizes ongoing and active use of authority.

sustains dominance

This suggests a long-term continuation of being the most powerful or influential.

secures ongoing influence

Focuses on actively ensuring influence continues.

upholds command

This alternative signifies to keep or defend a position of authority.

persists in dominance

This suggests dominance continues despite potential challenges.

FAQs

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

You can use "retains power" to describe someone or something that continues to hold authority, influence, or control. For example, "Despite the scandal, the politician "retains power" within the party".

What are some alternatives to "retains power"?

Alternatives include "maintains control", "preserves authority", or "holds onto power", depending on the specific context.

Is it correct to say "retains power"?

Yes, "retains power" is a grammatically correct and commonly used phrase in English. Ludwig confirms that the phrase is acceptable.

What's the difference between "retains power" and "gains power"?

"Retains power" implies that someone already had power and continues to have it. "Gains power" means someone is acquiring power that they did not previously possess. They are opposite in meaning.