omnipotence
om-NIP-uh-tuhns
/ɒmˈnɪpətəns/
The quality of having unlimited or very great power.
Usually reserved for deities or absolute rulers; implies a complete absence of any limits on what one can do.
The story behind the word. Formed from the Latin prefix omni- (all) and potens (powerful). It entered Middle English through Old French, primarily used in theological debates to describe the nature of God.
Word relationships
- almightiness: Almightiness is a Germanic-rooted synonym used almost exclusively in religious contexts, whereas omnipotence can be used metaphorically in political and philosophical contexts.
- impotence: Impotence is the complete lack of power or ability to take action, the absolute polar opposite of omnipotence.
Commonly confused with
- omniscience: Omniscience is knowing everything, whereas omnipotence is having the power to do everything.
Word family
- omnipotent (adjective): Having unlimited power.
Collocations
- divine omnipotence
- illusion of omnipotence
- absolute omnipotence
Example sentences
- "The belief in the omnipotence of the state is a dangerous illusion." Economic Theory
- "The ancient myths attribute absolute omnipotence to the king of the gods." Mythology
Memory hook
OMNI (all) + POTENT (powerful) = All-powerful. Unlimited, all-encompassing power.
When not to use
Do not use for a boss who is merely strict or a politician with a slim majority.
Fun facts
- The 'Omnipotence Paradox' is a famous philosophical puzzle: 'Can an omnipotent being create a rock so heavy that they themselves cannot lift it?'
Explore more words
omnipotent, omniscient, omnipresent, deity, absolutism, transcendent
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