Power Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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power
[ˈpaʊər ]
Definitions
energy source
The ability or capacity to do something or act in a particular way, often as a result of physical or mental strength. Power can also refer to political or social influence.
Synonyms
authority, control, influence.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| power |
Power is used to describe the ability to do something or act in a particular way. It can also refer to physical strength or energy. In some cases, it denotes high status or official capacity.
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| authority |
Authority refers to the right to give orders, make decisions, and enforce obedience. It is often associated with formal roles or positions within organizations or institutions.
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| control |
Control means the power to influence or direct people's behavior or the course of events. It often implies regulation or restraint.
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| influence |
Influence is the ability to have an effect on the character, development, or behavior of someone or something. It often implies a more subtle or indirect power.
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Examples of usage
- She used her power to make positive changes in the community.
- The president has the power to veto legislation.
electricity
Electrical energy transmitted or converted into a mechanical form. Power is often measured in watts or kilowatts.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| power |
Use this word when referring to the capacity or ability of a machine, person, or system to do work or produce an effect. It often implies strength or influence.
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| electricity |
This word pertains to the phenomenon associated with the presence and motion of electric charge. It's used when discussing the state or supply of electrical power.
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| energy |
Energy refers to the capacity to do work and is used in various contexts, including physics (e.g., kinetic energy, potential energy) and everyday life (e.g., human energy, fuel energy).
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| current |
This word is used when talking about the flow of electric charge in a circuit or the flow of water in a river. It denotes a continuous movement.
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Examples of usage
- The power went out during the storm.
- The generator provides backup power.
control or influence
To control or influence others or a situation. It can also mean to supply with electricity.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| power |
Used to describe the ability to do something or make something happen, often in terms of electrical or mechanical energy.
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| energize |
Typically used when describing the act of giving energy or enthusiasm to someone or something, often in a figurative sense.
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| drive |
Commonly used to describe the motivation or determination to achieve something, or to refer to controlling a vehicle.
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| supply |
Often used in the context of providing or making something available, usually in terms of resources or materials.
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Examples of usage
- She powered through the challenges and succeeded.
- The solar panels power the entire house.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Physics
- In science, power is defined as the rate at which work is done or energy is transferred, usually measured in watts.
- The famous equation, Power = Work / Time, shows how quickly energy is being used.
- Renewable energy sources, like wind or solar, are increasingly utilized to provide power, helping reduce our carbon footprint.
Politics
- The concept of power dynamics in political theory examines how power is distributed and exerted among individuals and groups.
- Influential philosophers like Machiavelli explored the use of power in governance, often urging leaders to be pragmatic.
- Power can manifest in soft forms, such as influence and persuasion, making it a versatile concept in social sciences.
Culture
- Many cultural narratives explore the theme of power, from classic literature to films, often depicting the struggles for control.
- In music, power is frequently expressed through anthems that celebrate strength and resilience, like many protest songs.
- Art movements often seek to convey the power of emotion, challenging social norms and provoking thought.
Psychology
- Psychologists study personal power in terms of self-efficacy, or the belief that one can succeed in specific situations.
- Research indicates that feeling powerful can influence decision-making and risk-taking behavior.
- Group dynamics reveal how power can shift within teams, impacting collaboration and productivity.
Origin of 'power'
Main points about word origin
- The word originates from the Latin 'potere', meaning 'to be able', highlighting its connection to ability.
- In Old French, 'poer' referred to ability or potency, which evolved into the modern form used today.
- The shift from a general sense of capability to a more political and energetic connotation arose during the Renaissance.
The word 'power' originates from the Middle English 'pouer', which came from the Anglo-Norman French 'poer', and ultimately from the Latin 'potere', meaning 'to be able'. The concept of power has evolved over time to encompass physical strength, authority, control, and energy.
See also: powder.