the powers that be

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "the powers that be" is correct and usable in written English.
It is often used to refer to people in positions of authority, particularly when they are seen as oppressive, unresponsive, or difficult to work with. For example: "The powers that be at the company refused to negotiate with the union."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

47 human-written examples

"The powers that be are incrementalists.

The Guardian

"The powers that be wouldn't allow any large-scale decadence".

The New York Times

The powers that be have to get this right".

Independent

The powers that be are eternally in my debt".

The New Yorker

Maybe the powers that be are working on something".

The Guardian

"The powers that be say I should not be upset".

The Guardian

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

13 human-written examples

The move caused extreme offence among the powers-that-be.

Independent

That's up to the powers-that-be.

BBC

Let's hope the powers-that-be get the message".

BBC

The powers-that-be have got to decide that".

BBC

But in football, the powers-that-be have always been reluctant.

BBC

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "the powers that be" to subtly critique or question the decisions of those in authority, especially when those decisions are perceived as unfavorable or unjust.

Common error

Avoid using "the powers that be" when referring to individuals with limited or localized authority. The phrase implies a broader, more impactful level of influence or control.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "the powers that be" functions as a noun phrase, typically serving as the subject or object of a sentence. It refers to individuals or groups holding authority or control, as exemplified by Ludwig's examples showing its usage across various contexts.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

70%

Formal & Business

15%

Wiki

5%

Less common in

Science

5%

Reference

3%

Encyclopedias

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "the powers that be" is a common phrase used to refer to those in authority, often with a hint of critique or resignation. Ludwig's analysis shows that it functions as a noun phrase, is used across various contexts, but most frequently in News & Media. It's grammatically correct and, according to Ludwig AI, usable in written English. Remember to use it when referring to those with significant influence, and be mindful of the subtle critique it often implies. Be aware of other terms such as "the authorities" or "the establishment" because they could better express a similar but slightly different concept.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

those in charge

A more direct and general way to refer to people with control.

the authorities

Focuses on those with official power to enforce rules and laws.

the establishment

Refers to the dominant group holding power or authority.

the decision-makers

Highlights the role of those who make important choices.

the ruling class

Implies a social hierarchy where a specific class holds power.

the administration

Specifically refers to the executive branch or management.

the higher-ups

An informal way to refer to those in superior positions.

the brass

Often used in military or hierarchical organizations.

the top dogs

An idiomatic expression for leaders or those in control.

the influencers

Focuses on individuals with the capacity to affect decisions.

FAQs

How can I use "the powers that be" in a sentence?

You can use "the powers that be" to refer to people or groups in authority, especially when you want to suggest they are resistant to change or out of touch. For example, "The powers that be are often slow to adopt new technologies".

What's a more formal alternative to "the powers that be"?

More formal alternatives include "the authorities", "the administration", or "the decision-makers", depending on the specific context.

Is "the powers that be" always negative?

While often used in a critical or questioning context, "the powers that be" is not inherently negative. It simply refers to those in positions of authority. However, it often carries a connotation of distance or disapproval.

How does "the powers that be" differ from "the establishment"?

"The powers that be" refers to specific individuals or groups currently holding authority, while "the establishment" refers to the broader system or structure that supports that authority. "The establishment" is more abstract and enduring.