power

Everyday

1. Power is the ability or strength to do something or to make things happen. tree →
2. Power is control over people or things, like the power of a king. tree →
3. Power is energy, especially electricity, used to run machines. tree →
4. To power something means to give it energy so it works. tree →
5. In maths, a power is how many times a number is multiplied by itself, like 2 to the power of 3. tree →

In the lessons

In science and everyday life «power» often means electricity: a power cut, a power station, solar power, wind power; in safety, never touch power lines or poke things into power sockets. In maths, powers are written small and high: 2³ = 2 × 2 × 2 = 8; «squared» is the power of 2. In stories superheroes have special powers, and kings and queens have power. In history and citizenship, people vote to decide who has power. Phrases: «power cut», «in power», «do everything in my power».

Examples

• There was a power cut, so we used candles. tree →
• The car is powered by electricity. tree →
• Solar power comes from the Sun. tree →
• Stay away from fallen power lines. tree →
• Her superpower is being invisible. tree →
• 10 to the power of 2 is 100. tree →
• The king had great power over the land. tree →
• I will do everything in my power to help. tree →
• In our time water has wonderful powers. tree →

Note

Usually uncountable for energy and strength; countable for special abilities (powers). In maths, «to the power of 3» is not times 3: 2 to the power of 3 is 8, not 6. A «power socket» (UK) is an «outlet» (US). «Powerful» = having lots of power.

In Jewish tradition

Strength, especially God's mighty strength that saved Israel. Jacob also speaks of the strength he used to serve Laban.

Interpretation. Tradition says God's power is shown in the Exodus. The Song at the Sea praises His right hand as glorious in power.

Examples

• And ye know that with all my power I have served your father. (Torah GEN.31.6, JPS 1917) tree →
• Thy right hand, O LORD, glorious in power, Thy right hand, O LORD, dasheth in pieces the enemy. (Torah EXO.15.6, JPS 1917) tree →
• And now, I pray Thee, let the power of the Lord be great, according as Thou hast spoken, saying: (Torah NUM.14.17, JPS 1917) tree →
• Or have I no power to deliver? (Prophets ISA.50.2, JPS 1917) tree →
• Would He contend with me in His great power? (Writings JOB.23.6, JPS 1917) tree →
• How hast thou helped him that is without power! (Writings JOB.26.2, JPS 1917) tree →

Note

Usually uncountable for energy and strength; countable for special abilities (powers). In maths, «to the power of 3» is not times 3: 2 to the power of 3 is 8, not 6. A «power socket» (UK) is an «outlet» (US). «Powerful» = having lots of power.