to win power

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "to win power" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used in contexts discussing political ambitions, leadership, or gaining control over a situation or organization. Example: "The candidate's main goal is to win power in the upcoming election and implement their proposed reforms."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Your party's failed attempts to win power in 2001 and 2005 are evidence enough of that.

The Economist

Not just to win power but to have the right policies for 2020 and beyond.

Independent

He has skilfully plotted and schemed his way to the top, using power to win power.

The Economist

If the PPP proceeds to win power, it might then offer him its support.

The Economist

Ex-communists seem likely to win power at next year's general election.

The Economist

It does not respect laws because it had to break laws to win power".

The Guardian

Mr Cameron risks being seen as a man who will say anything to win power.

The Guardian - Opinion

The first is that opposition to austerity alone is not enough to win power.

The Guardian - Opinion

Ed wants to win power in order to give it away.

The Guardian - Opinion

Robert Sheehan is a startlingly glamorous Richard III, who uses his disabilities to win power.

The Guardian

He reckons that Labour have to clear two hurdles to win power in 2015.

The Guardian - Opinion

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When writing about political strategies, use "to win power" to clearly convey the aim of gaining political authority, distinguishing it from simply gaining influence or achieving a minor victory. It's effective for highlighting the ultimate goal of political endeavors.

Common error

Avoid using "to win power" when you mean "to wield power". "To win power" refers to the act of obtaining authority, whereas "to wield power" describes the exercise of that authority once obtained. For example, a politician might strive "to win power", but once in office, they "wield power" through their decisions.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "to win power" primarily functions as an infinitive phrase expressing purpose. As confirmed by Ludwig AI, it is used to indicate the goal or objective behind an action, often in political or competitive contexts. It specifies why something is being done.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Science

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "to win power" is a common and grammatically correct infinitive phrase used to express the purpose of gaining authority or control, particularly in political contexts. Ludwig AI confirms its appropriate usage in various scenarios. Predominantly found in news and media sources, the phrase maintains a neutral tone, indicating its suitability for professional discourse. While alternatives like "to gain control" or "to seize power" exist, "to win power" specifically emphasizes the strategic efforts aimed at achieving political authority. When using this phrase, ensure you're referring to the act of obtaining power, rather than exercising it (which would be "to wield power"), and consider the context to ensure it aligns with the intended meaning.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

to gain control

Focuses on obtaining control, implying a direct acquisition of authority.

to secure authority

Focuses on firmly establishing authority.

to rise to power

Emphasizes the process of ascending to a position of authority.

to seize power

Suggests a more forceful or sudden acquisition of power.

to obtain dominance

Implies achieving a position of superiority and control.

to acquire influence

Emphasizes gaining influence rather than direct power.

to take the reins

Suggests assuming control and leadership.

to achieve victory

Highlights the accomplishment of winning, applicable in various contests.

to assume command

Focuses on taking control in a leadership position, often in a military or hierarchical context.

to come out on top

An idiomatic expression for achieving the best result in a competitive situation.

FAQs

How can I use "to win power" in a sentence?

You can use "to win power" to describe the efforts or strategies employed by individuals or groups aiming to gain control or authority, particularly in political contexts. For example: "The party's strategy focused on grassroots mobilization "to win power" in the next election."

What are some alternatives to "to win power"?

Depending on the context, you can use alternatives like "to gain control", "to seize power", or "to acquire influence". Each alternative has slightly different connotations regarding the means and extent of authority gained.

Is it correct to say 'winning power' instead of "to win power"?

While "winning power" is grammatically correct, it often functions as a gerund or participle, describing an ongoing action or state. "To win power" is an infinitive phrase that typically expresses purpose or intention. The choice depends on the specific context and the intended meaning.

What's the difference between "to win power" and "to hold power"?

"To win power" refers to the initial act of gaining authority or control, often through competition or election. "To hold power", on the other hand, describes the act of maintaining or retaining that authority once it has been acquired. They represent different stages in the exercise of authority.