English Idioms from A-Z

The Powers That Be

"The powers that be" is an idiomatic expression that refers to the people or groups who have the authority or control over a particular situation or organization. It can be used to describe those in positions of power, such as government officials, business executives, or other influential people.

For example, if someone is frustrated with a decision made by their employer, they might say "I don't agree with the powers that be." This means that they disagree with the decision made by the people in charge of the company.

The phrase "the powers that be" is often used to express a sense of powerlessness or frustration with a situation that is beyond one's control. It can also be used to describe a sense of resignation, as if to say "there's nothing we can do about it because the powers that be have already made their decision."

Overall, "the powers that be" is a useful phrase to describe those in positions of authority or control, and is often used to express frustration or resignation in situations where one feels powerless.


The usage of the idiom 'The Powers That Be' in a sentence

• The powers that be are responsible for maintaining the stability of the economy.

• The powers that be have announced new regulations for international trade.

• The powers that be are considering a major overhaul of the tax system.

• I don't know why the bus is late, it's probably the powers that be.

• The powers that be decided to close the park early today.

• We can't change the company policy, it's up to the powers that be.

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