PhrasesHub

Knowledge is power

    Definitions

      • Emphasize the importance of knowledge and education
        To convey the idea that having knowledge and information can give someone power, influence or advantage in various situations or circumstances

      • Highlight the value of learning and understanding
        To encourage people to seek knowledge and continuously strive for self-improvement and growth, as it can lead to personal and professional success

    Examples of Knowledge is power

    • Sarah spent hours studying for her exams because she believed that knowledge is power.

      This idiom means that having information and understanding gives a person the ability to make decisions, influence others, and achieve their goals. In Sarah's case, she recognized that by gaining more knowledge, she would have more power to succeed in her exams and in other areas of her life.

    • After the presentation, the CEO said that the new marketing strategy was a game-changer. He explained that the company's success would now be in their own hands because they had the knowledge and resources to make it happen.

      This idiom means that a new approach or idea can have a significant impact and change the way things are done. The CEO recognized that the success of the company would no longer be dependent on external factors, but rather on their own knowledge and resources.

    • During the job interview, the candidate said that she was a quick learner and hoped that her eagerness to learn would be an asset to the company.

      This idiom means that someone who is eager to learn and acquire new knowledge will be more effective and valuable in their work. The candidate recognized that by demonstrating her eagerness to learn, she could differentiate herself from other candidates and make herself a more attractive job prospect.

    • The teacher told the class that the key to success was hard work and dedication, not just knowledge.

      This idiom means that while knowledge is important, it is not enough to achieve success. Other factors, such as hard work and dedication, are also necessary. The teacher recognized that by emphasizing the importance of these qualities, she could help her students develop the habits and attitudes they need to succeed in their academic and professional pursuits.

    • The politician said that transparency was the best policy because it would give the people the power to hold their leaders accountable.

      This idiom means that being open and honest about one's actions and decisions empowers others to make informed choices and hold those in power accountable. The politician recognized that by emphasizing the importance of transparency, she could build trust with her constituents and increase her own power and influence.


    Conclusion

    The idiom "knowledge is power" is typically used to stress the significance of having knowledge and education. It serves as a reminder that being knowledgeable and well-informed can give someone an advantage in different aspects of life. It also emphasizes the idea that learning and understanding are essential for personal and professional growth.

    The idiom can also be used to caution against ignorance and the dangers of not seeking knowledge. It implies that lacking knowledge can put someone at a disadvantage and hinder their progress and success. It serves as a call to continuously seek knowledge and stay informed in order to have power and control over one's life and circumstances.

    Origin of "Knowledge is power"

    The origin of the idiom "knowledge is power" can be traced back to the 16th century, when it was first used by the philosopher and statesman Francis Bacon. In his work "Meditationes Sacrae" (1597), Bacon wrote "ipsa scientia potestas est" which translates to "knowledge itself is power." This quote later evolved into the more commonly used version of the idiom.

    The meaning of the idiom has remained consistent throughout history, but its usage has evolved. In the past, it was mainly used to emphasize the importance of education in gaining power and influence. However, in modern times, it is also used to highlight the value of information and its impact on decision-making and success.