unchecked power

USAGE SUMMARY

"unchecked power" is correct and usable in written English.
It is often used to describe a situation where someone or something has a lot of power without any controls or limitations. Example: The dictator's unchecked power allowed him to make decisions without consulting anyone else, leading to widespread corruption and oppression in the country.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Political Science

Law

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

RECEP TAYYIP ERDOGAN'S march to unchecked power is unstoppable.

The Economist

But in a true democracy, no institution, no matter how essential, should enjoy such unchecked power.

The New York Times

And without such cause, the authorities should not have unchecked power to snoop on private conversations.

The New York Times

The end of the Yamadayev brothers as a political force left Kadyrov with nearly unchecked power.

The New Yorker

Now some Californians are wondering if the Democrats' unchecked power encourages bad behaviour.

The Economist

But his unchecked power and frictions with Washington are serious problems.

The New York Times

It is a disturbing decision that gives the administration essentially unchecked power to imprison foreigners.

The New York Times

DL ... learning that possessing unchecked power isn't as much fun as he may have initially thought.

The Guardian - Sport

This was hardly the person to ask elected officials to trust with unprecedented, unchecked power.

The New York Times

Both have unchecked power, and both can be misused for politically motivated prosecutions, he said.

The New York Times

On Internet sites, commentators voiced outrage over what the scandal revealed about the dangers of unchecked power.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When discussing political systems or leadership, use "unchecked power" to emphasize the importance of checks and balances in preventing abuse of authority.

Common error

Avoid using "unchecked power" in casual conversation or informal writing. The phrase carries a serious connotation and is more appropriate for formal discussions of governance, ethics, or historical events.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "unchecked power" primarily functions as a noun phrase. It typically acts as the subject or object of a sentence, describing a state of authority without limitations or controls. As confirmed by Ludwig, it is a correct and usable expression in English.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

64%

Science

20%

Formal & Business

8%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

4%

Wiki

2%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "unchecked power" is a grammatically sound and frequently used noun phrase that describes authority or control without limitations. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and usability in the English language. Predominantly found in news and media contexts, it serves to express concern over situations where power is exercised without adequate oversight. Its related phrases include "unfettered authority" and "unbridled control". When using this phrase, it's crucial to consider its serious connotation and employ it appropriately in formal or neutral registers, particularly when discussing political systems, ethics, or historical events.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

unfettered authority

Implies a release from restraints or restrictions, highlighting the freedom of the authority.

unbridled control

Suggests a lack of restraint and potential impulsiveness in the exercise of control.

unregulated influence

Focuses on the absence of rules or guidelines governing the influence exerted.

absolute dominion

Emphasizes the completeness and totality of the power held.

limitless authority

Highlights the absence of boundaries or constraints on the authority.

unrestrained command

Focuses on the lack of limitations on the ability to give orders and be obeyed.

uncontrolled sway

Suggests a power that moves or influences people without being managed or directed.

dictatorial rule

Implies a forceful and oppressive exercise of power by a single individual.

despotic power

Emphasizes the tyrannical and oppressive nature of the power.

autocratic control

Points to a system where one person holds supreme and unlimited power.

FAQs

How can "unchecked power" affect a society?

A society where leaders or institutions wield "unchecked power" is vulnerable to corruption, oppression, and the suppression of individual rights. Without accountability or limitations, those in power may act in their own self-interest, disregarding the needs and well-being of the population.

What are some synonyms for "unchecked power"?

Alternatives to "unchecked power" include "unfettered authority", "unbridled control", or "absolute dominion". The best choice depends on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Why is it important to prevent "unchecked power"?

Preventing "unchecked power" is essential for safeguarding democracy, protecting civil liberties, and promoting social justice. Systems of checks and balances, transparency, and accountability help ensure that power is used responsibly and in the best interests of all citizens.

In what historical contexts has "unchecked power" led to negative outcomes?

Historically, "unchecked power" has been associated with totalitarian regimes, dictatorships, and other forms of authoritarian rule. Examples include Nazi Germany, Stalinist Russia, and various absolute monarchies, where the absence of constraints on power resulted in widespread human rights abuses and social injustices.