Powers: meaning, definitions and examples

Use 'powers' when talking about special or supernatural abilities that someone or something possesses. It often implies a remarkable or extraordinary force.

• Superman has incredible powers that allow him to fly and lift heavy objects

Refer to 'abilities' when mentioning the general talents and competencies someone has in a specific area. It doesn't necessarily connote anything extraordinary, just particular proficiencies.

• Her abilities in mathematics are impressive; she solves complex problems easily

Choose 'skills' when referring to learned or practiced competencies. Skills imply expertise developed through experience and training.

• His cooking skills have improved after attending culinary school

Use 'capabilities' to describe the potential or capacity of someone or something to achieve a certain outcome. Often used in a more formal or technical context.

• The smartphone's capabilities include high-resolution photography and fast internet browsing

Usually used to describe abilities or special capabilities that someone possesses, often in a broad or informal sense.

• She has the powers to heal people with her touch.
• The superhero used his powers to save the city.

Used in formal settings to indicate legal or official power to give orders and make decisions.

• The police have the authority to arrest individuals who break the law.
• She received her authority to manage the project from the company's CEO.

Describes the ability to direct or influence the behavior of people or the course of events. Can have a negative connotation if it implies domination or suppression.

• He has complete control over the company's finances.
• Her parents want to control every aspect of her life.

Often used in a historical or literary context to signify sovereign or supreme authority over a territory or group of people.

• The king had dominion over all the lands in his kingdom.
• Under her dominion, the region prospered.

Used to describe the ability to act or produce an effect, often referring to abilities that are almost magical or extraordinary.

• The superhero uses his powers to save the city
• The machine powers itself using solar energy

Used when talking about giving someone or something more energy or enthusiasm, making them more active and lively.

• The coach’s speech really energized the team
• Drinking coffee in the morning helps to energize me for the day

Used in two main contexts; literally, to supply a machine with energy, and metaphorically, to provide a person or situation with a stimulus or motivation, often with a connotation of sustaining conflict or a negative emotion.

• We need to fuel the generator before the power runs out
• Her anger was fueled by years of neglect and misunderstanding
• The scandal fueled a lot of public outrage

Used when discussing motivation or determination to achieve something, often within personal goals or ambitions.

• Her drive to succeed is unmatched
• The company’s growth is fueled by the CEO’s strong drive