wield power

USAGE SUMMARY

"wield power" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when referring to someone exercising influence, control, or authority over others or something. For example, "The newly elected Mayor used her position to wield power over the city's residents."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

Men wield power over women.

The Guardian

The Brotherhood did not expect to wield power so soon.

The Economist

In all companies, bosses wield power, which tends to corrupt.

The Economist

At last it is beginning to resemble a government endeavouring to wield power.

The Economist

Republicans, like Democrats, are savvy political animals who want to win and wield power.

The Economist

Increasingly, they want a strong hand — elected by the people — to wield power.

The New York Times

Bigwigs are finding it harder to wield power and harder to hold on to it.

The Economist

One fundamental question of great interest to Washington is how Mr. Xi intends to wield power.

The New York Times

However, both men wield power mostly through networks of patronage and tribal influence.

The New York Times

Jefferson was born in 1743, and "he was raised to wield power".

The New York Times - Books

From him, Mr Ozawa learnt how to wield power from out of sight.

The Economist

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "wield power" to describe situations where someone or some group actively uses their authority or influence to achieve a specific outcome. Ensure that the context clearly indicates the scope and impact of the power being exercised.

Common error

Avoid using "wield power" when simply describing influence. "Wield power" implies active control and the ability to enforce decisions, not just sway opinions.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "wield power" functions as a verb phrase, typically acting as the predicate in a sentence. It describes the act of exercising control, influence, or authority. Ludwig examples show how different entities – from governments to individuals – can "wield power" in various contexts. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

62%

Formal & Business

13%

Encyclopedias

4%

Less common in

Science

8%

Reference

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "wield power" is a common and grammatically sound phrase used to describe the active exercise of authority or influence. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is correct and usable in written English. Predominantly found in news and formal contexts, it signifies intentional control and impact. To use it effectively, ensure the context clarifies the scope and consequences of the power being exerted, and avoid using it when simply describing influence without active control. Alternatives like "exert influence", "exercise authority", and "hold sway" offer nuanced ways to express similar concepts. Be mindful of the subtle differences in meaning to ensure accurate and impactful communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

exercise authority

Replaces "wield" with "exercise", emphasizing the formal right to control.

exert control

Similar to "exercise authority" but focuses on the act of controlling.

exert influence

Changes "wield power" to a more general term, focusing on influence rather than direct authority.

hold sway

A more figurative expression indicating influence or dominance.

command influence

Highlights the ability to direct or control influence.

hold the reins

A metaphor indicating control and direction, often in a leadership context.

have authority

Focuses on possessing authority rather than actively using it.

have control

Similar to "have authority", emphasizing possession rather than action.

dominate proceedings

Suggests a stronger, more assertive form of control, particularly in a formal setting.

call the shots

An informal idiom for making decisions and controlling a situation.

FAQs

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

You can use "wield power" to describe someone or something that has and uses authority or control. For example, "The president "exercises authority" over the executive branch."

What are some alternatives to "wield power"?

Alternatives include "exert influence", "exercise authority", or "hold sway". The best choice depends on the specific context and the nuance you wish to convey.

Is it correct to say someone "wields influence"?

While it's more common to say someone "exerts influence," using "wields influence" isn't incorrect, though it's less frequent. "Wield" typically suggests a more direct and forceful application of power or control. Therefore, "exert influence" is often a better fit.

What's the difference between "wield power" and "have power"?

"Have power" implies possession of authority, whereas "wield power" suggests the active use of that authority. Someone can "have authority" without actively "exercising authority" or "exerting control".