power-hungry: Idiom Meaning and Origin
What does ‘power-hungry’ mean?
The idiom "power-hungry" refers to a person who is excessively eager or desperate to gain or maintain power. They are driven by a strong desire for control or authority and may use unethical or manipulative means to achieve their goals.
Idiom Explorer
The idiom "rule the roost" means to be in control or have authority over others, especially in a family or group setting.
To "rule the day" means to take control or have a strong influence over a situation or event, often with negative consequences for oneself or others.
An idiom often used to describe a person who is disliked or considered bad, with negative qualities or behavior.
The idiom "rooting interest" refers to a personal stake or strong support for someone or something, typically in a competitive situation.
The idiom "reign supreme" means to have complete control or be in a position of undisputed power or authority.
The idiom "put a gun to someone's head" means to exert extreme pressure or force on someone to make them do something against their will.
The idiom "pull strings" means to use one's influence or connections to manipulate or control a situation in one's favor.
'Pull rank' is an idiom that means to use one's higher rank or position of authority to gain an advantage or to assert dominance over someone else.
The idiom "pulling power" means the ability to attract or influence others, typically in romantic or persuasive contexts.
Unquenchable thirst for control
The use of the idiom power-hungry can be related to various other idioms and expressions that revolve around the concept of power. These idioms highlight different aspects of power and its influence on individuals and society. Let's explore how power-hungry is related to five specific idioms: "poor power," "powers that be," "pulling power," "power behind the throne," and "power of the purse."
The idiom "poor power" refers to power that is weak or ineffective. It implies that despite having authority or control, the individual or entity lacks the capability to utilize it effectively. This idiom can be associated with power-hungry individuals who may have a strong desire for power but are unable to wield it efficiently. Their hunger for power may lead to poor decision-making, ineffective leadership, and ultimately, a weakening of their position of authority.
"Powers that be" is an idiom that refers to the people or entities who hold power or authority in a particular situation or society. It can be used to describe those in positions of power, such as government officials or corporate leaders. When referring to power-hungry individuals, this idiom emphasizes the existence of those who already hold power and the desire of others to acquire that power. Power-hungry individuals may navigate the social and political landscape in order to gain the attention and favor of the "powers that be."
Another related idiom is "pulling power," which refers to an individual's ability to influence, persuade, or manipulate others. This idiom is often associated with individuals who have a charismatic personality and possess the necessary skills to convince others to do their bidding. Power-hungry individuals may strive to have pulling power as they recognize its potential for advancing their goals and increasing their control over others. They may employ various tactics, such as charm, manipulation, or intimidation, to exert their influence and gain more power.
"Power behind the throne" is an idiom that signifies an individual or group who holds significant power or influence without occupying a formal position of authority. They exercise control or exert influence over those who hold positions of power. When discussing power-hungry individuals, this idiom highlights the existence of hidden forces or individuals who may be orchestrating events or manipulating those in power for their own benefit. Power-hungry individuals may themselves seek to become the power behind the throne, operating behind the scenes to shape decisions and control outcomes.
The idiom "power of the purse" relates to the ability to control or influence financial resources. It refers to individuals or entities who have the authority to make financial decisions or allocate funds. Power-hungry individuals may recognize the power of the purse and seek to control financial resources as a means of exerting their influence and furthering their goals. They may maneuver themselves into positions that allow them to control budgets, funding, or economic policies, thus consolidating their power and gaining leverage over others.
Through these related idioms, we can see different facets of power and its implications. Power-hungry individuals constantly seek to increase their control and dominance, often at the expense of others. They may utilize various strategies and tactics to achieve their goals and manipulate those around them. However, their hunger for power may lead to poor decision-making, weak leadership, and ultimately may undermine their own authority. They navigate the social and political landscape, recognizing the existence of those who already hold power and actively seeking to gain favor and influence. They may aspire to possess the ability to persuade, manipulate, or intimidate others, recognizing the potential for such pulling power to advance their own agenda. Furthermore, power-hungry individuals may also strive to become the power behind the throne, operating in the shadows to orchestrate events and manipulate those in positions of authority. Finally, they may recognize and exploit the significance of controlling financial resources, understanding that the power of the purse can greatly enhance their ability to exert influence and further their own interests.
Example usage
Examples of how the idiom *power-hungry* can be used in a sentence:
- He acted power-hungry, always trying to control others and gain more authority.
- The power-hungry politician would do anything to stay in office, even if it meant betraying his own party.
- She became power-hungry after being promoted, abusing her position to assert control over her colleagues.
More "Adjectives" idioms
