omnipotent
/ɔm'nipətənt/
Definition
- Adjective:
- Having unlimited power; able to do anything. This term is most commonly used in religious contexts to describe a deity, particularly the God of monotheistic religions, who possesses all power.
- (By extension) Used to describe a person, entity, or force that seems to have absolute power or authority in a particular domain.
Usage and Examples
- As an adjective describing a deity:
- Christians believe in an omnipotent God who created the universe.
- The concept of an omnipotent being is central to many theologies.
- As an adjective describing secular, seemingly unlimited power:
- The king was not truly omnipotent, as he still had to answer to the council.
- Critics accused the corporation of having omnipotent control over the industry.
Advanced Usage and Nuances
- "The Omnipotent": A formal title or epithet for God, often capitalized.
- They prayed to the Omnipotent for guidance and mercy.
- Used to emphasize overwhelming power in a metaphorical or hyperbolic way.
- She felt an omnipotent rage wash over her when she heard the news.
- In the digital age, data can seem like an omnipotent force.
Variants and Related Words
- Omnipotence (noun): The state or quality of having unlimited power.
- The doctrine of divine omnipotence is a complex theological topic.
- Omnipotently (adverb): In an omnipotent manner.
- The ruler governed omnipotently, with no checks on his authority.
Synonyms
- All-powerful: Having complete power.
- Almighty: Having ultimate power (often used as "the Almighty" for God).
- Supreme: Highest in authority or power.
Antonyms
- Powerless: Without power or ability.
- Impotent: Lacking power or vigor; unable to take effective action.
Related Idioms and Phrases
- "Omnipotent moral busybody": A phrase (popularized by C.S. Lewis) describing someone who uses a position of perceived moral superiority to interfere intrusively in the lives of others, as if they had absolute authority.
- He warned against the tyranny of the omnipotent moral busybody.
Adjective
-
having unlimited power
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