Is powerful stronger than strong?

Often, yes. **Powerful** usually suggests more force, influence, or effect than **strong**.

Can I use powerful for people?

Yes. You can say a person is powerful if they have influence or authority.

Is powerful common in IELTS writing?

Yes. It is useful in formal writing for ideas, arguments, and effects.

← Dictionary

powerful

/ˈpaʊəfəl/

IELTSAcademic

adjective

Having a lot of power, strength, or force. It can also mean very influential or very effective.

The storm was powerful and damaged many houses.
She gave a powerful speech.
This medicine is very powerful.

Adinary Nuance

Powerful is stronger and wider than strong. Use strong for physical force, skills, or support; use powerful for force, influence, emotions, or results. It often sounds more impressive and more formal than strong.

In other languages

Vietnamese: mạnh mẽ
Spanish: poderoso
Chinese: 强大的
Japanese: 強力な
Korean: 강력한

Etymology

Powerful comes from Old French and English roots related to "power." It has been used in English since the Middle English period.

Common phrases

a powerful speecha powerful enginea powerful argumentpowerful emotions

Synonyms

strong forceful mighty influential

Related words

power strength influence effective

Frequently asked questions

Is powerful stronger than strong?: Often, yes. **Powerful** usually suggests more force, influence, or effect than **strong**.
Can I use powerful for people?: Yes. You can say a person is powerful if they have influence or authority.
Is powerful common in IELTS writing?: Yes. It is useful in formal writing for ideas, arguments, and effects.