Power: English Vocabulary List

used to imply that the more power a person has, the more likely they are to abuse that power and act in their own self-interest, rather than in the interest of others

"Total power corrupts completely — absolute power corrupts absolutely."

"Every unchecked leader had eventually abused their position — absolute power corrupts absolutely."

used to imply that those with greater power or resources are more likely to succeed, regardless of their individual abilities or the merits of their cause

"Power always favours the strongest — providence is always on the side of the big battalions."

"The largest player in the market set the terms for everyone else — providence is always on the side of the big battalions."

used to imply that people with wealth and power are often favored, and their jokes or actions may be seen as more entertaining or valuable, even if they are not particularly funny or appropriate

"People laugh at powerful people's jokes regardless — a rich man's joke is always funny."

"Nobody dared to criticize the billionaire's terrible speech, because a rich man's joke is always funny."

used to imply that those who have power and authority can act without constraint or accountability, regardless of the consequences or the impact on others

"Power determines what is right — might makes right."

"The stronger party imposed its terms — might makes right, as the smaller partner quickly understood."

used to emphasize that the person who provides the money or resources for a project or activity has the right to control how it is carried out and what decisions are made

"Whoever controls the money controls the decisions — he who pays the piper calls the tune."

"The major donor expected significant influence over strategy — he who pays the piper calls the tune."

used to suggest that those in power have the resources and connections to reach beyond their immediate surroundings and enforce their authority

"Kings have long arms and great power."

"Governments have long arms, so they can reach people far away."

used to suggest that positions of high responsibility or leadership often come with great risks or potential for harm

"The most important role carries the most risk — the post of honour is the post of danger."

"Taking responsibility for the failing project meant accepting personal risk — the post of honour is the post of danger."

used to suggest that someone who was previously poor or powerless may become reckless and make poor choices when suddenly given wealth or authority

"Giving power to the wrong person leads to disaster — set a beggar on horseback and he will ride to the devil."

"The sudden promotion went to his head and he alienated everyone — set a beggar on horseback and he will ride straight to the devil."