wields significant power

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "wields significant power" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe someone or something that has a considerable amount of influence or control over a situation or group. Example: "The CEO wields significant power in shaping the company's strategic direction and policies."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

10 human-written examples

What I see is a global corporation that now wields significant power in unexpected areas – like being able to manipulate its users' moods, and influence their voting behaviour.

The Guardian - Opinion

The European commission's development department under the control of Piebalgs still wields significant power, but it will need to redefine its role against the EEAS's.

The Guardian

It is a stunning decision for Guatemala, where the military still wields significant power behind the scenes and the country's elected governments have struggled to build democratic institutions.

The New York Times

As unpredictable as he may be, Mr. Sadr wields significant power through the governorship of the southern Maysan Province and his political bloc in Parliament, which is a foundation of the ruling coalition.

The New York Times

The stand-off between Russia and the West over Ukraine has given hope to hardliners in Tehran, among them the Revolutionary Guard, which still wields significant power, that the sanctions regime may fragment even without a nuclear deal.

The Economist

The beauty sites had been competing on a level playing field, but with Lauder on its side Gloss now wields significant power.

Forbes

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

50 human-written examples

Its security services again wield significant power.

The New York Times

A small number of influential gatekeepers do wield significant power.

The Guardian - Books

Bazaars are the backbone of the country's traditional economy, and still wield significant power.

The New York Times

"These are places where industries wield significant power over politics and over education.

The Washington Post

Central bankers wield significant power in a wide variety of political systems around the world.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "wields significant power" when you want to emphasize the active use or possession of considerable control or influence, particularly in formal or professional contexts.

Common error

Avoid using "wields significant power" in casual or informal writing. It can sound overly formal or pretentious in everyday conversation. Opt for simpler alternatives like "has a lot of influence" or "is very powerful" in less formal settings.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "wields significant power" functions as a predicate in a sentence, describing the subject's capacity to exert considerable influence or control. As Ludwig AI highlights, it is widely used and grammatically sound.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

62%

Formal & Business

21%

Encyclopedias

10%

Less common in

Science

7%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "wields significant power" is a common and grammatically correct phrase used to describe the exertion of considerable influence or control. Ludwig AI analysis indicates its suitability for formal and professional contexts, particularly in news and media, business, and academic writing. While versatile, it should be used judiciously in informal settings, where simpler alternatives may be more appropriate. Remember the phrase's meaning revolves around the active exercise of control and is best employed when this action is central to the message.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

exerts considerable influence

Uses 'exerts' and 'influence' to emphasize the action of applying power, rather than possessing it.

holds substantial authority

Replaces 'power' with 'authority', suggesting a legitimate or recognized form of control.

commands considerable sway

Employs 'sway' to imply influence over opinions or decisions.

possesses great control

Focuses on the aspect of 'control', indicating the ability to direct or manage.

carries significant weight

Uses a metaphorical expression to suggest importance and impact.

has a major impact

Shifts the focus to the effect or consequence of the power.

is highly influential

Uses the adjective 'influential' to describe the characteristic of having power.

dominates the field

Suggests a position of superiority and control within a specific area.

exercises considerable leverage

Highlights the ability to use something to maximum advantage.

has extensive reach

Implies power through the ability to affect many people or areas.

FAQs

How can I rephrase "wields significant power" to sound less formal?

You can use phrases like "has a lot of influence", "is very powerful", or "carries a lot of weight" depending on the context.

What is the difference between "wields significant power" and "holds significant authority"?

"Wields significant power" suggests the active use of control or influence, while "holds significant authority" implies a more legitimate or recognized form of control. Authority is often granted, while power can be taken or earned.

Is it appropriate to use "wields significant power" in academic writing?

Yes, "wields significant power" is appropriate for academic writing, especially when analyzing political structures, social influences, or economic forces. It is a precise and formal way to describe the exertion of control.

What are some common synonyms for "wields significant power" that maintain a formal tone?

Some formal synonyms include "exerts considerable influence", "commands considerable sway", and "possesses great control". Each of these alternatives conveys a similar meaning with slightly different nuances.