Superpower: meaning, definitions and examples

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superpower

 

[ หˆsuหpษ™หŒpaสŠษ™r ]

Noun
Context #1 | Noun

ability

An extraordinary ability or power that a person or character possesses, typically beyond the realms of normal human capabilities. Superpowers are often seen in comic books and science fiction.

Synonyms

extraordinary power, special ability, supernatural power.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
superpower

Often used in the context of superheroes or fictional characters who possess abilities far beyond those of ordinary humans. It can also mean a nation with a lot of influence and power globally.

  • Superman is known for his superpowers like flight and x-ray vision.
  • The USA and China are considered superpowers in the current global political landscape.
special ability

Describes a unique skill or talent that someone has, often used in a more positive or neutral tone compared to 'superpower'. It's frequently used in educational and professional settings.

  • He has a special ability to understand complex mathematical problems.
  • Her special ability in playing the piano was recognized at a young age.
extraordinary power

Used to describe an ability or force that is far beyond the average but does not necessarily have a magical or supernatural connotation. It can be used in both realistic and fictional contexts.

  • The CEO's extraordinary power to inspire the team was evident.
  • Her extraordinary power of concentration allowed her to study for hours without getting distracted.
supernatural power

Specifically refers to abilities that go beyond the natural world, often associated with magic, ghosts, or otherworldly entities. This term is commonly used in fantasy, horror, and science fiction genres.

  • The witch was feared for her supernatural powers to cast spells.
  • The haunted house was rumored to be filled with supernatural powers.

Examples of usage

  • Superman's ability to fly is considered a superpower.
  • The character of Wonder Woman possesses superhuman strength as her superpower.
Context #2 | Noun

politics

A term used to describe a country or nation with significant global influence and power, often in the context of political or military affairs.

Synonyms

dominant force, global power, major player.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
superpower

Refers to a nation with tremendous influence and military might on a global scale, often used in discussions about geopolitical strategy.

  • The USA and China are considered the current superpowers
global power

Used to describe a country with significant influence in international affairs, can be employed in economic, political, or cultural discussions.

  • Germany is seen as a global power due to its strong economy
dominant force

Indicates superiority and control within a specific area or field, sometimes used in both positive and negative contexts.

  • In the world of technology, Silicon Valley is a dominant force
major player

Describes an important and influential participant in a particular sector or activity, often used in business, sports, or politics.

  • Japan is a major player in the electronics market

Examples of usage

  • The United States is often referred to as a superpower due to its economic and military strength.
  • The Cold War era was characterized by the competition between the superpowers of the United States and the Soviet Union.

Translations

Translations of the word "superpower" in other languages:

๐Ÿ‡ต๐Ÿ‡น superpoder

๐Ÿ‡ฎ๐Ÿ‡ณ เคฎเคนเคพเคถเค•เฅเคคเคฟ

๐Ÿ‡ฉ๐Ÿ‡ช Supermacht

๐Ÿ‡ฎ๐Ÿ‡ฉ kekuatan super

๐Ÿ‡บ๐Ÿ‡ฆ ััƒะฟะตั€ัะธะปะฐ

๐Ÿ‡ต๐Ÿ‡ฑ supermoc

๐Ÿ‡ฏ๐Ÿ‡ต ่ถ…่ƒฝๅŠ› (ใกใ‚‡ใ†ใฎใ†ใ‚Šใ‚‡ใ)

๐Ÿ‡ซ๐Ÿ‡ท superpuissance

๐Ÿ‡ช๐Ÿ‡ธ superpoder

๐Ÿ‡น๐Ÿ‡ท sรผper gรผรง

๐Ÿ‡ฐ๐Ÿ‡ท ์ดˆ๋Šฅ๋ ฅ (chonungnyeok)

๐Ÿ‡ธ๐Ÿ‡ฆ ู‚ูˆุฉ ุนุธู…ู‰

๐Ÿ‡จ๐Ÿ‡ฟ superschopnost

๐Ÿ‡ธ๐Ÿ‡ฐ supermocnosลฅ

๐Ÿ‡จ๐Ÿ‡ณ ่ถ…่ƒฝๅŠ› (chฤonรฉnglรฌ)

๐Ÿ‡ธ๐Ÿ‡ฎ supermoฤ

๐Ÿ‡ฎ๐Ÿ‡ธ ofurkraftur

๐Ÿ‡ฐ๐Ÿ‡ฟ ััƒะฟะตั€า›ัƒะฐั‚

๐Ÿ‡ฌ๐Ÿ‡ช แƒ–แƒ”แƒกแƒแƒฎแƒ”แƒšแƒ›แƒฌแƒ˜แƒคแƒ

๐Ÿ‡ฆ๐Ÿ‡ฟ supergรผc

๐Ÿ‡ฒ๐Ÿ‡ฝ superpoder

Etymology

The term 'superpower' originated in the early 20th century during the period of great power rivalry and competition. Initially used to describe nations with exceptional military capabilities, the concept evolved to encompass countries with significant global influence across various domains. The Cold War era further solidified the usage of 'superpower' in the context of political and military dominance.

See also: empower, overpower, overpowered, overpowering, powered, powerful, powerfully, powerhouse, powering, powerless, powerlessly, powerlessness, powerplant, powers.