Ways to say it
| Latin | IPA | Note |
|---|---|---|
| potentia | [pɔˈtɛn.ti.a] (Classical Latin, narrow) [poˈtɛn.t͡si.a] (narrow) |
|
| potestas | [pɔˈtɛs.taːs] (Classical Latin, narrow) [poˈtɛs.tas] (narrow) |
feminine |
| facultas | [faˈkʊɫ.taːs] (Classical Latin, narrow) [faˈkul.tas] (narrow) |
feminine |
In Latin, several words represent different nuances of power, such as the capacity to influence events, legal authority or specific skills and opportunities.
Which one should you use?
The choice of word depends on the specific type of power being described. Use potestas when referring specifically to legal or official power derived from an office or law. Use potentia to describe inherent or physical power, such as raw strength or the capacity to act independently of legal status. Use facultas when the concept of power refers to a specific skill, faculty or the opportunity and means to perform a task.
How does it change in a sentence?
When using potentia, the form changes based on its role in a sentence. If power is the direct object of a verb, use the accusative form potentiam. To express the phrase 'of power' (as in 'the power of love'), use the genitive form potentiae.
Did you know?
- The Latin term potestas is derived from potis, an ancient root that likely meant 'master' or 'husband' in a household context.
- The Latin word facultas is the root of the English word 'faculty', which is why we use it to describe both a person's mental powers and a university department.
- The word facultas is used in Latin to describe the 'means' or 'resources' someone has, which is why it can refer to both a talent and a financial ability.
Examples in context
- Ad te tanta potestas venit.To thee all this power has come.This sentence shows the use of potestas to describe power coming to someone.Tatoeba #11726163 by soridsolid, translation #5095351 by mhenderson5
- Maria credit in potentiam amoris.Mary believes in the power of love.This sentence demonstrates the genitive form potentia to express the power of a concept.Tatoeba #1512400 by alexmarcelo, translation #1395912 by Spamster
- Nam et ipsa scientia potestas est.Knowledge is power.This sentence uses potestas to state a general truth about knowledge.Tatoeba #892754 by Scott, translation #277046 by LowMemory
- 7 more sentences on Tatoeba
Example conversation
Quintus and Julia are discussing the influence of a local leader.
- QuintusHic vir magnam potentiam habet.This man has great power.
- JuliaIta, omnes eum timent.Yes, everyone fears him.
- QuintusPotentia eius se per totam urbem extendit.His power extends through the whole city.
- JuliaIulia hanc potentiam vincere vult.Julia wants to overcome this power.
Sources
- Wiktionary, “power” translations and entries potentia, potestas, facultas, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
- Example sentences: Tatoeba CC BY 2.0 FR.
