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English idioms often show vivid pictures of power dynamics, which capture the essence of control, authority, and influence in everyday situations. From “calling the shots” to “having a tight grip,” these idioms reveal how power can be exerted or lost, shaping interactions and results. Exploring the idioms not only improves our understanding of the English language but also enriches our ability to express aspects of power in everyday communication. This article presents you with several idioms, breaking down their meanings with clear examples to illustrate how they capture the essence of power.
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Read More: Best Idioms with Examples
8 English Idioms on Power
Understanding idioms not only improves communication skills but also provides insight into the book of social dynamics and leadership. Here are a few of the idioms on power with their examples.
Be in Control
The idiom “be in control” means managing, directing, or overseeing a situation, person, or process effectively.
Example: During the emergency meeting, the manager stayed calm and was in control, ensuring everyone knew their tasks and deadlines.
Wear the Pants
“Wear the pants” means to be the person in a relationship typically in a marriage or partnership with the most authority or control.
Example: In their family, it’s clear that Sarah wears the pants, she makes all the major decisions about finances and household matters.”
Hold the Purse Strings
The idiom “hold the purse strings” means to control or have authority over finances or resources. It implies the power to make decisions about how money is spent or allocated.
Example: In the company, the CFO holds the purse strings, deciding on all major expenditures.
Be in the Catbird Seat
The idiom “in the catbird seat” means to be in a highly advantageous or favorable position. It suggests being in control or having a significant advantage over others in a situation.
Example: After securing a major partnership deal, Sarah found herself in the catbird seat within the company, leading the new initiative with full support from senior management.
Be in the Hot Seat
The idiom “be in the hot seat” signifies being in a situation where one is under scrutiny, pressure, or facing intense questioning or criticism.
Example: Sarah knew she was in the hot seat when the boss asked her to explain the project delays in front of the entire team.
Be the Master of One’s Domain
The idiom “be the master of one’s domain” means to have full control over oneself or one’s situation. It suggests being in charge of one’s own life, decisions, or responsibilities.
Example: After years of hard work and dedication, Maria finally felt like she was the master of her own domain, having built a successful career on her terms.
Be at the Top of the Food Chain
The idiom “be at the top of the food chain” refers to being in the highest position of power or dominance within a particular context or hierarchy.
Example: In the corporate world, the CEO is at the top of the food chain, making all major decisions for the company.
Have a Tight Grip
The idiom “have a tight grip” indicates having complete control or a strong hold over something. It implies that someone is firmly in command of a situation or object.
Example: Despite the challenges, Sarah had a tight grip on the project and ensured it was completed ahead of schedule.
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5 Idioms for Power: Meanings and Example
Understanding idioms can enrich our language skills and help us communicate more effectively. In this section, you will explore some common idioms related to power, with their meanings, and provide simple examples to explain you more clearly:
Rule with an iron fist
“Rule with an iron fist” is an idiom that means to govern or control people very strictly and often harshly.
Example: Despite his popularity, the president was criticised for ruling with an iron fist, limiting freedom of speech and press.
Hold all the cards
The idiom “hold all the cards” means to be in a position of power or control in a particular situation.
Example: In a poker game, if one player has the best hand and knows it, they hold all the cards. They have the best chance to win the game and can play confidently.
Pull the strings
The idiom pull the strings indicates to control or influence a situation or other people’s actions, often secretly or behind the scenes.
Example: Although the new manager seems to be in charge, it’s really the company’s founder who is pulling the strings from behind the scenes.
In the driver’s seat
“In the driver’s seat” is an idiom that indicates being in control of a situation or having the power to make decisions.
Example: With the new project, Jane is in the driver’s seat, making all the key decisions for the team.
Have the upper hand
The idiom “have the upper hand” means to have a position of advantage, control, or power in a situation.
Example: In a negotiation, if you have more information than the other party, you have the upper hand.
Read more related blogs on Idioms
FAQs
As a form of figurative language, they serve as a potent communication tool when applied effectively. Idioms effortlessly infuse conversational flair into writing, making it less formal and more engaging, especially useful for transforming technical or rigid content, like blog posts or emails.
An idiom for controlling someone is “under someone’s thumb.” This phrase denotes being under the control or influence of another person. It often carries a negative meaning, suggesting that someone is in a situation where they lack autonomy or are heavily influenced by someone else.
Vocabulary idioms refer to expressions or phrases in language that carry figurative rather than literal meanings, often rooted in cultural context. In English, these idioms not only offer advice but also convey deeper principles and values in straightforward terms.
This was all about idioms for power. You can also follow the Learn English page of Leverage Edu for more exciting and informative blogs related to English grammar and the English language.
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