Definition

Noun: A world power is a sovereign state that possesses significant economic, political, and military strength, enabling it to exert substantial influence on a global scale and shape international events.

Usage

The term "world power" is used to classify and discuss nations that hold predominant status in the international system. It often appears in historical, political, and geopolitical contexts. - It functions as a countable noun. - It is typically modified by adjectives like "major," "leading," or "emerging." - It is often used in comparative analyses (e.g., the balance of power among world powers).

Examples

• In the 20th century, the United States and the Soviet Union were the two dominant world powers.
• The conference was attended by diplomats from several world powers.
• Economic growth is essential for any nation aspiring to become a world power.

Advanced Usage

• Historical Context: The term is used to describe states in different historical periods (e.g., ).
• Shifting Status: It can describe a change in a nation's influence (e.g., ).

Variants and Related Words

• Superpower (n): A term with a similar meaning, often implying an even greater degree of global dominance, especially used in the context of the Cold War.
• Great Power (n): A closely related term frequently used in diplomatic history and international relations; it sometimes implies a tier just below a superpower.
• Global Power (n): A near-synonym emphasizing worldwide influence.

Synonyms

• Major power
• Great power
• Global power
• Superpower (in some contexts)

Antonyms

• Minor power
• Small state
• Regional power (a state with influence limited to a specific geographic area)

Related Phrases and Concepts

• Balance of power: A theory in international relations concerning the distribution of power among world powers to prevent any one from becoming too dominant.
• Power politics: Political actions based on the use of force or the threat of force, typically associated with the conduct of world powers.
• Rise and fall of world powers: A common theme in historical study, analyzing how nations achieve and lose this status over time.

Noun

1. a state powerful enough to influence events throughout the world