weaker power

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "weaker power" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a force, entity, or influence that is less strong or effective compared to another. Example: "In the negotiation, the weaker power struggled to assert its interests against the dominant force."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

13 human-written examples

"They involve the use of dramatic events to enable a militarily weaker power to attack a stronger power," he said.

The New York Times

"War logic" dictates that a weaker power needs to use maximum efforts to defeat a stronger rival, he said, speaking in fluent English.

The New York Times

He sought not a simple policy of neutrality but rather, as he recommended to his successor in his political testament of 1667, to advance the interests of his house by always joining the weaker power against the stronger.

Encyclopedia Britannica

In 1672, when Louis XIV prepared for the invasion of Holland, Frederick William, still true to his policy of supporting the weaker power, allied himself with the Dutch states-general.

Encyclopedia Britannica

[C3.] Fundamental Differences Await Bernanke's Fed Term When Ben S. Bernanke becomes chairman of the Federal Reserve, he will face similar inflationary concerns that Alan Greenspan had in 1987 along with some fundamental differences, like the rise of global production, easier access to capital and labor's weaker power.

The New York Times

"If there is a power loss on one probe, and weaker power losses in other probes, that could help us pinpoint the source of the problem," says Andy Proctor of Chronos.In America there is already a military system to spot GPS interference: the GPS Jammer Detection and Location (JLOC) system run by the National Geospatial Intelligence Agency.

The Economist

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

47 human-written examples

"I'm still left with one set of powers in one area and much weaker powers in another.

The Guardian

One is that America is powerful and Europe is not: "Strong powers naturally view the world differently than weaker powers.

The New York Times - Books

"It's historically been the case that weaker powers have sought to constrain stronger powers through the mechanisms of international legal structures".

The New York Times

In particular, they object to the commissioner for England having responsibility for all non-devolved powers within the UK despite his weaker powers.

The Guardian

Mr. Mearsheimer spends less than half a page on this major inconsistency, saying only that Japan's targets were weaker powers and that the Soviet Union cared more about Europe.

The New York Times - Books

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing political dynamics, use "weaker power" to accurately represent a disparity in influence or resources between entities. This helps convey the nuances of power imbalances in international relations or domestic politics.

Common error

Don't substitute "weaker power" with overly general terms like "disadvantaged" without clarifying the specific context of power. Retain precision and ensure the replacement accurately reflects the reduced strength or influence being described.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "weaker power" functions as a noun phrase, where "weaker" modifies the noun "power". As Ludwig AI suggests, the phrase is grammatically correct. It typically identifies an entity with less strength, influence, or resources compared to another, often in political, economic, or social contexts.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

42%

Science

32%

Encyclopedias

10%

Less common in

Wiki

8%

Huffington Post

6%

The Guardian - Opinion

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "weaker power" is a grammatically correct and commonly used term to describe an entity with less strength or influence relative to another. As confirmed by Ludwig AI, its usage spans various contexts, including news, science, and encyclopedias, indicating its versatility and broad applicability. While the term itself is neutral, its implications depend heavily on the specific situation being described. Alternatives such as "lesser strength" or "reduced influence" can be used depending on the nuances you want to convey. When writing, clarity and precision are key to effectively using this phrase.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

reduced influence

Emphasizes a decrease in the ability to affect or shape events or decisions.

lesser strength

Focuses on the physical aspect of power, suggesting a reduction in physical force or intensity.

restricted power

Implies that the power is not absolute and is subject to limitations or constraints.

diminished authority

Highlights a decline in formal or recognized power, often within a hierarchical structure.

inferior force

Implies a comparison where one power is demonstrably less potent or effective than another.

compromised strength

Highlights that the strength or power has been negatively affected or undermined.

limited capacity

Suggests a restriction in the potential or ability to perform a task or function.

waning influence

Similar to 'declining potency' but specifically related to the ability to sway or impact others.

declining potency

Focuses on the gradual reduction of power over time, suggesting a weakening trend.

subdued energy

Indicates a decrease in vigor or activity, suggesting a weaker state of power.

FAQs

How can I use "weaker power" in a sentence?

The phrase "weaker power" is used to describe an entity or force that has less influence or strength compared to another. For example: "The smaller nation was considered the "weaker power" in the conflict."

What are some synonyms for "weaker power"?

Alternatives to "weaker power" include "lesser strength", "reduced influence", or "diminished authority", depending on the specific context.

Is it always negative to be described as a "weaker power"?

Not necessarily. While it indicates less strength or influence, it can also imply resilience or strategic adaptation in the face of adversity. The implications depend on the specific context.

What is the difference between "weaker power" and "weak power"?

"Weaker power" implies a comparative assessment relative to another power, while "weak power" simply describes a general lack of strength or effectiveness. "Weaker power" is about relative position, whereas "weak power" is about absolute condition.