Language Research

power · noun

/ˈpɑʊ.ər/Full view

Word family

Nouns: power, superpower, empowerment

Adjectives: powerful, overpowering, powerless

Verbs: power, empower, overpower

Adverbs: powerfully

power (ELECTRICITY)

B1 U energy, usually electricity, that is used to provide light, heat, etc.

Dictionary examples:

power lines

nuclear/wind/solar power

We lost power for three days.

Learner example:

From my parents, I found out that there was a power failure. (Preliminary English Test; B1; Chinese)

power (CONTROL)

B2 U control or influence over people and events

Dictionary example:

I don't have any power over him - he does what he wants to.

Learner example:

People can't be trusted [with] power. [T]hey will always reach for more. (First Certificate in English; B2; Swedish)

power (POLITICS)

C1 U political control in a country

Dictionary examples:

They have been in power too long.

When did this government come to power?

Learner example:

It happened in the November of 1973 and it is the University students' rebellion against the outlaw military goverment which had come to power in 1967 after a violent c[oup]. (Certificate in Advanced English; C1; Greek)

do everything in your power to do sth

C1 to do everything that you are able and allowed to do

Dictionary example:

I've done everything in my power to help him.

Learner example:

I think of myself as an open-minded and cheerful person and if I get the job I will do everything in my power to make sure your visitors will have a great time at the theme park. (Certificate in Advanced English; C1; Danish)

power (COUNTRY)

C1 C a country that has a lot of influence over others

Dictionary example:

a major world power

Learner example:

Unfortunately this trend continues into adulthood and has become so bad that in a world power like the United States, one in every three people are considered clinically obese. (International English Language Testing System; C1; Afrikaans)

power (STRENGTH)

C1 U strength or force

Dictionary example:

economic/military power

Learner example:

We have enough population and economic power to set up a complete city. (Certificate in Advanced English; C1; Korean)