power - Master This Word
Master this word with our 5-step learning method – Learn English in English
power Word Meanings
- The ability to do something or act in a particular way.
- Physical or mechanical energy.
- Control or influence over someone or something.
power Example Sentences
Example sentences are the start of understanding. Don't rush to memorize. First feel how the word works in a sentence.
power Phonetic & Pronunciation
UK
/ˈpaʊə/
US
/ˈpaʊər/
power Word Etymology
power = po- (from 'potere', meaning 'to be able') + wer (related to 'man'). Historical origin: Latin 'potentia' → Old French 'poeir' → English 'power'. Memory image: Imagine a superhero wielding incredible strength and energy, showing their power to save the day.
Note 1: These definitions and etymologies are not standard dictionary definitions, but extended explanations provided to help with memorization and understanding of the actual application of words. Through this background information, we strive to make words more vivid and easier to understand, and help you remember their meanings in real life.
Note 2: LexiTalk designs the learning flow around the linguistics principle of “Comprehensible Input.” When learners encounter material that is slightly above their level but still understandable from context, the brain naturally absorbs the language. That’s why we keep every word inside authentic contexts, using examples and associations to help you understand it and use it flexibly.
Read the FAQ explanation of Comprehensible InputEnglish Brain Route
Her hands find the tool, she sets her fingers, and she turns the knob with a careful twist. The dial shifts, the room light flickers, and she feels the effort rise as she push and pull to keep the balance. She adjusts her grip, keeps her stance steady, and lets the sequence play out until the thing she wants is in reach. Power, in this moment, is a mix of decision and control, the ability to act when forces pull back.
Real Context
Power is a versatile word in English. As a noun, it covers energy in science and machinery, the capacity to act, or control over people or situations. It appears in political contexts, in phrases like power over others, and in expressions such as electrical power. As a verb, to power something means to supply it with energy or to drive it forward. Power can describe both physical strength and potential ability, as in 'she has the power to change things.' The etymology links to 'potere' and Latin potentia, and a memorable image of a superhero wielding energy can help you recall both senses: energy in machines and the power to influence.
Usage Reminders
- Power has multiple meanings: energy, ability, and influence; don’t confuse them.
- Noun vs verb: power (energy) vs to power (to energize).
- Watch for collocations: power outage, power up, powerful (adj).
- Different types of power: electrical power, political power, personal power.
- Be careful with 'power over' vs 'power to' in phrases.
Common Misconceptions
- Power is only physical strength.
- Energy and power are the same thing.
- Power always means political authority.
- Power cannot describe what a machine has.
- To power something is only used for machines.
Thinking Differences
Power in English blends abstract ability and physical energy; learners often mix 'power' as energy with 'power' as influence, and forget verb use ('to power').
Learning Tips
- Relate power to energy and ability with a memory image (a superhero).
- Practice with common phrases: power outage, power up, powerhouse (a very capable person).
- Differentiate power (noun) and to power (verb).
- Learn collocations: electrical power, political power, personal power.
- Use power in diverse contexts: machines, politics, influence.
- Remember the etymology potentia to help recall the two main senses.
5-Step Learning Method - Learn English in English
Step 1: Meaning
What is the meaning of the word 'power'?
A.Generosity
B.Happiness
C.Confidence
D.Strength
Step 2: Usage
How is the word 'power' used in a sentence?
A.He is always lazy and lacks power.
B.They have the power to be kind-hearted.
C.I feel confused about the power of nature.
D.She has the power to change the world.
Step 3: Similar Words
Which word is similar to 'power'?
A.Weakness
B.Joy
C.Fear
D.Authority
Step 4: Opposite Words
What is the opposite of 'power'?
A.Incapability
B.Defense
C.Victory
D.Courage
Step 5: Mastery
In what real-life context would you use the word 'power'?
A.Discussing political influence
B.Talking about leisure activities
C.Describing a peaceful scene
D.Sharing a recipe
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