show of power

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "show of power" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a demonstration or exhibition of authority, strength, or influence, often in a political or social context. Example: "The military parade was a clear show of power, intended to impress both citizens and foreign observers."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

He put on a show of power.

The New Yorker

^ "Iraqi Shia groups rally in show of power". AlJazeera, 22 June 2014.

Stanford University

The new show of power by the board is a remarkable turn of events.

The New York Times

It is a show of power without reason and of authority without accountability.

The New York Times

It's an unprecedented show of power for one division in one league.

The New York Times - Sports

In a show of power, the Empire destroyed the planet Alderaan, proving its strength.

The Washington Post

What is Zampa's blackmail of another man's bride but a villain's gratuitous show of power?

The New York Times - Arts

"I was just blown away," he says, "by that instant show of power and influence".

The Guardian - Film

He sees Wednesday's attack as a show of power in a battle for supremacy between gangs.

The Guardian

In putting on an almost imperial show of power, she has touched something deep.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

1 human-written examples

Not that Julian blames the corporations for taking this "show-of-power" attitude when it comes to bandwidth.

Forbes

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "show of power" to describe deliberate displays intended to impress or intimidate. It often implies a strategic intent behind the demonstration.

Common error

Avoid using "show of power" when describing genuine displays of competence or skill. The phrase carries connotations of deliberate demonstration and may not be appropriate in situations where skill is simply being exercised without intent to dominate or impress.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "show of power" functions as a noun phrase. It typically serves as the subject or object of a sentence, describing an event or action that demonstrates authority, strength, or control, as exemplified by Ludwig AI.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

78%

Academia

10%

Formal & Business

5%

Less common in

Science

3%

Encyclopedias

2%

Wiki

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "show of power" is a common and grammatically correct expression used to describe a deliberate display of strength, influence, or authority. As Ludwig AI confirms, it appears frequently in news and media contexts, as well as in academic and formal business settings. While generally neutral, it implies a strategic intent behind the action. Remember to use it appropriately when describing deliberate displays and to avoid using it for simple demonstrations of skill. Alternatives include "display of strength" and "demonstration of authority", each offering subtle nuances in meaning.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

display of strength

Focuses on the element of force or might being exhibited.

demonstration of authority

Emphasizes the aspect of legitimate control being asserted.

exercise of control

Highlights the act of wielding influence or command.

exhibition of dominance

Implies a superior position being asserted over others.

assertion of influence

Stresses the impact one has on others or a situation.

imposition of will

Conveys a forceful execution of one's desires.

power play

Refers to a strategic action taken to gain an advantage.

flexing of muscles

Uses a metaphor to describe the demonstration of capacity.

parade of force

Suggests a deliberate display of military or physical might.

spectacle of might

Focuses on the grand and impressive nature of the display.

FAQs

How can I use "show of power" in a sentence?

You can use "show of power" to describe an action meant to display dominance or influence, such as "The military parade was a clear "show of power"." or "His speech was a "show of power" aimed at silencing dissent."

What phrases are similar to "show of power"?

Similar phrases include "display of strength", "demonstration of authority", and "exercise of control", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is "show of power" appropriate in formal writing?

Yes, "show of power" is appropriate in formal writing, particularly when discussing political or strategic actions. However, consider the context and ensure it accurately reflects the intent behind the action being described.

What is the difference between "show of power" and "abuse of power"?

"Show of power" typically refers to a deliberate demonstration of strength or influence, while "abuse of power" implies the misuse of authority for personal gain or to harm others. The former is not inherently negative, while the latter is always negative.