Power refers to the ability or capacity to influence others' behavior, decisions, or actions either through force, coercion, persuasion, or authority. It is often associated with control over resources, institutions, or people.
Related terms
Authority: Legitimate power granted by a recognized source such as laws or institutions.
Hegemony: Dominance exerted by one group or country over others through cultural, economic, military, or political means.
Soft power: The ability to influence others through attraction rather than coercion; it relies on diplomacy, culture, ideas, and values rather than force.