power

The word “power” means the ability to do something, or to control and influence people or events. In plain terms, the ability to control, influence, or act — or, in a more physical sense, energy or electricity.

“Power” is pronounced POW-uh (/ˈpaʊ̯.ɚ/ in IPA).

Here is “power” used in a sentence: “The new CEO has the power to restructure the entire company.”

Words with a similar meaning to “power” include aptitude, arm, authority, capability, capacity and clout.

The opposite of “power” — its antonyms — are impotence and weakness.

Depending on how it is used, “power” can be a noun and a verb.

The word “power” comes from Vulgar Latin. From Old French poeir, from Vulgar Latin potere, related to Latin posse, "to be able" — the same root as "potent" and "possible".

“Power” is a very common word in modern English, usually learned at around the A2 level.

Power is the actual ability to influence or control people and events, however it is obtained. Authority is the recognised, legitimate right to exercise power, granted by a role, law, or agreement. A person can hold power without authority, or authority without real power to enforce it.

Strength is inherent force or robustness, often physical, like a strong rope or a strong arm. Power is the capacity to act or to influence others and events, which may rely on strength but also on knowledge, position, or resources. Strength is what you have, and power is what you can do with it.

In social terms, researchers often list coercive power (force or threat), reward power (offering benefits), legitimate power (from position), expert power (from knowledge), and referent power (from respect or charisma). These describe the different sources from which a person's influence over others can flow.

Power itself is neutral, as it is simply the capacity to make things happen. Whether it helps or harms depends on how it is used and who holds it. The same influence can protect people or exploit them, which is why power is so often paired with responsibility and accountability.