seize power

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase 'seize power' is correct and usable in written English.
You can use this phrase when you are referring to someone or some group gaining control over a certain area or situation. For example, "The rebel army was able to seize power from the government after a long and bloody revolution."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

system of governance and to seize power".

The New York Times

Or seize power somewhere else?

The Guardian

Communists seize power in Afghanistan.

The Washington Post

He now appears determined to seize power.

The New York Times

"We must seize power and take control.

The Guardian

"Jibril isn't a man trying to seize power," he said.

The Guardian

The union, however, did not seize power at gunpoint.

The New York Times

Pakistan's coup-prone Army did not try to seize power.

The New York Times

Donald Trump has a chance to seize power.

The New Yorker

And that does nothing to seize power out there.

The New Yorker

The next move saw Yusuf Bey IV seize power.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "seize power" to describe a forceful or sudden acquisition of control, especially in political or organizational contexts. For example, "The military attempted to "seize power" during the coup."

Common error

Avoid using "seize power" when a legitimate transfer of authority occurs. This phrase implies a forceful or unauthorized taking of control, not a standard election or appointment.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "seize power" functions as a verb phrase where "seize" is the transitive verb and "power" is the direct object. It describes the act of taking control or authority, often implying a forceful or illegitimate action. Ludwig confirms this usage through its examples.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

65%

Encyclopedias

15%

Wiki

10%

Less common in

Science

3%

Formal & Business

3%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "seize power" is a common and grammatically correct expression used to describe the forceful or sudden acquisition of control or authority. Predominantly found in news and historical contexts, it carries a neutral to formal tone. Ludwig AI confirms its validity and offers numerous examples illustrating its use in various scenarios. While alternatives like "take control" or "usurp power" exist, "seize power" specifically implies an abrupt and often illegitimate takeover.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

capture power

Similar to "seize power" but can also imply a more strategic or planned takeover.

take control

Emphasizes the act of assuming control without necessarily implying force or illegitimacy.

grab power

Suggests a sudden and possibly opportunistic acquisition of power.

usurp power

Suggests seizing power unlawfully or illegitimately, adding a negative connotation.

wrest control

Implies a struggle or effort in gaining control, often against resistance.

gain dominance

Focuses on achieving a position of superior influence or control.

assume command

Focuses on taking a position of leadership or authority, especially in a military context.

establish authority

Emphasizes the process of creating and solidifying one's power base.

take over

Implies assuming control or management of something, often a business or organization.

dominate the government

Focuses on exerting overwhelming influence over the governmental structure.

FAQs

How is "seize power" typically used in a sentence?

Typically, "seize power" is used to describe a sudden or forceful taking of control, often in a political or organizational context. For example, "The rebels managed to "seize power" after a protracted conflict."

What are some alternatives to "seize power"?

Alternatives include "take control", "usurp power", "grab power", or "capture power" depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

When is it appropriate to use "seize power" instead of "gain power"?

"Seize power" is appropriate when describing a sudden, often illegitimate, acquisition of control. "Gain power", on the other hand, implies a more gradual or legitimate increase in influence or authority.

Is "seize power" a formal or informal expression?

"Seize power" is a neutral expression that can be used in both formal and informal contexts, although it is more frequently found in news reports and historical accounts.