Powerful describes someone or something that has great strength, influence, or effect. It can refer to physical force, emotional impact, or social and political control.
“Powerful” is formed from “power” plus the suffix *-ful*, meaning “full of.” It literally means “full of power or ability.”
A speech, a storm, and a tiny medicine dose can all be called powerful, even though they look nothing alike. The common thread is their ability to produce big changes from relatively small actions.
Descriptions of people as 'powerful' have historically skewed toward male leaders, executives, and public figures, reflecting gendered access to formal authority. Women exercising power were often labeled with negative terms instead of being neutrally called 'powerful.'
Use 'powerful' neutrally for people of any gender and avoid implying that power or ambition is unfeminine or abnormal for women and gender minorities. Be mindful not to sexualize or diminish women described as powerful.
Recognize women and gender-diverse leaders, organizers, and thinkers as 'powerful' in the same straightforward way as men, rather than resorting to euphemisms or backhanded compliments.
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