wielding power

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "wielding power" is correct and commonly used in written English.
It means to exercise or use power or authority over someone or something. Example: The dictator is known for his ruthless tactics in wielding power over his citizens.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

A powerful hostile nation induces any rival to hesitate before wielding power as often as it would like.

Huffington Post

"He was very creative about wielding power".

The New York Times

His personality is particularly well suited to wielding power.

The New York Times

What matters to them is getting and wielding power; to what purpose is a secondary issue.

The Economist

Their family connections may mean a greater confidence with wielding power and pressing for bolder changes.

The New York Times

But detractors accused him of wielding power unilaterally, and described him as aloof and defensive.

The New York Times

She has turned shyness into an art form, wielding power from the shadows.

The Economist

A thin majority is not always an obstacle to wielding power.

The New York Times

The coalition was sold to Lib Dems as being about wielding power.

The Guardian - Opinion

He declines to contemplate even the possibility of his party wielding power in the event of a hung parliament.

The Economist

Most of them like power, so there is sustenance to be had in achieving and wielding power.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing the way someone or something uses power, use "wielding power" to convey the deliberate and skillful application of authority. It suggests a calculated and purposeful action.

Common error

Avoid using "wielding power" when simply describing someone who has power. "Wielding power" implies active and intentional use of that power, not just its possession.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "wielding power" functions as a verb phrase, where "wielding" (verb) modifies "power" (noun). Ludwig AI confirms that it's commonly used in written English to express the action of exerting control or authority. It is not only about having power but mostly about how you express it.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

82%

Academia

7%

Science

3%

Less common in

Wiki

3%

Formal & Business

2%

Reference

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "wielding power" is a versatile and commonly used expression that describes the active exercise of authority or influence. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and frequent use in written English. Its grammatical function is that of a verb phrase, and it typically appears in neutral to formal contexts, especially in news and media. While similar phrases like "exercising authority" or "exerting influence" exist, "wielding power" often conveys a sense of strategic and deliberate action. It is important to use the phrase to describe the use of power, not just its possession. Remembering these nuances will help ensure accuracy and precision in your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

exerting influence

Focuses on the act of having an effect on someone or something.

exercising authority

Highlights the formal or legitimate use of power.

exerting control

Emphasizes the act of maintaining dominance or command.

wielding authority

Highlights the possession of authority.

exercising power

Focuses on the active use of one's power or influence.

exerting power

Highlights the active use of influence.

wielding influence

Highlights the capacity to have an effect on someone or something.

having control

Focuses on the state of being in command.

exerting dominance

Highlights the act of showing one's superiority and control.

using authority

Implies a more practical and direct application of power.

FAQs

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

"Wielding power" describes the act of exerting authority or control. For example, "The dictator was known for ruthlessly "wielding power" over his citizens".

What are some alternatives to "wielding power"?

Depending on the context, you can use alternatives like "exerting influence", "exercising authority", or "exerting control".

Is it better to say "wielding power" or "exercising power"?

Both phrases are correct, but "wielding power" often implies a more skillful or strategic use of authority, while "exercising power" is a more general term for using one's power.

What does it mean to accuse someone of "wielding power unilaterally"?

Accusing someone of "wielding power unilaterally" means they are using their authority without consulting others or considering their opinions. It implies an abuse of power.