within your power

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "within your power" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to indicate that something is possible or achievable based on someone's abilities or authority. Example: "You have the ability to make a difference, so do what is within your power to help those in need."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

56 human-written examples

Word of mouth may be powerful, but you still need to do everything within your power and resources to get the message out that you are a viable solution for private property owners in the area.

The Guardian

It's within your power to prevent this awful practice".

The New York Times

Make a clear choice and intention to attain all the health and longevity within your power.

The Guardian

Still well within your power to change the whole dress code to, like, beach casual".

The New York Times - Books

It is within your power to prevent a genocide" Nelson Mandela, Johannesburg "For God's sake, take this seriously.

The Guardian

"I am writing to ask you to intervene personally while it is still within your power as prime minister," Ratcliffe wrote in his letter.

The Guardian

"But while the exchange of ideas can be rough, it is within your power to defend yourself, and answering criticism helps you to define yourself and your positions".

The Guardian - Books

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

4 human-written examples

Take the child she has already decided to put up for adoption, welcome him into your family, shower him with love, protect him with your life and give him every opportunity within your powers.

The New York Times - Magazine

Why? It's because I realise that this opportunity will never come again and you might have a lot of years wondering what might have happened if you had done something still within your powers".

Independent

Overstepping policy or rules is not, so make sure you are operating within your powers.

WikiHow

If you have a malignant team member who has no interest in having integrity or getting their job done, then should you warn them about dismissal then it should be within your powers to dismiss such a person.

WikiHow

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use the phrase "within your power" to encourage action and highlight the agency someone has to influence a situation. For example: "It is within your power to make a positive change in your community."

Common error

Avoid using "within your power" when referring to outcomes that are primarily determined by external factors. It's more accurate to say "do your best" or "try your hardest" when complete control is lacking.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "within your power" functions as a prepositional phrase, typically used to modify a verb or noun, indicating the extent to which someone has the ability or authority to influence a situation. Ludwig AI indicates that the expression is widely used across different types of sources.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

45%

Wiki

25%

Science

15%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Encyclopedias

3%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "within your power" is a versatile prepositional phrase employed to emphasize agency and the capacity to influence or control a situation. As Ludwig AI confirms, this phrase is grammatically correct and sees frequent usage across numerous contexts, from news and media to scientific discussions. While widely applicable, it's vital to ensure the phrase aligns with the reality of someone's actual capabilities to avoid overstatement. Consider alternatives like ""in your control"" or "up to you" depending on the nuance you wish to convey. Using "within your power" effectively can empower and motivate action, while being mindful of realistic limitations enhances its impact.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

in your control

This alternative emphasizes the aspect of having direct command or management over something.

in your hands

This highlights the responsibility and ability to affect a situation through one's actions.

up to you

This phrase places the decision-making authority solely on the individual.

at your discretion

This suggests freedom to decide based on one's own judgment.

within your capacity

This refers to the ability or resources one has available.

subject to your authority

This indicates that something falls under one's jurisdiction or command.

under your purview

This suggests something falls within the scope of one's responsibilities or influence.

contingent on your decision

This highlights the reliance on one's choice to determine the outcome.

subject to your capabilities

This emphasizes the importance of one's inherent skills and talents.

at your disposal

This suggests the availability of resources or options to be used as needed.

FAQs

How can I use "within your power" in a sentence?

The phrase "within your power" indicates that someone has the ability or authority to do something. For example, "It is "within your power" to change your daily routine." It's used to emphasize agency and capability.

What's a more formal way to say "within your power"?

For more formal contexts, consider using alternatives such as "within your capacity" or "subject to your authority". These options convey a similar meaning with a more professional tone.

Is it always appropriate to tell someone something is "within their power"?

No, it's important to be realistic. Only use the phrase "within your power" when the person genuinely has the means and influence to affect the outcome. If the situation is largely beyond their control, consider less assertive phrases like "do your best".

What are some common misuses of "within your power"?

One common mistake is using "within your power" when describing outcomes that depend on luck or external forces. Focus instead on actions and decisions that are truly "in your control".