superior power
[/suːˈpɪriər ˈpaʊər/]
noun phrasepl: superior powers
poder superior
1. A force, authority, or strength that is greater than that of others; dominance or supremacy
The military superior power of the nation ensured its victory in the conflict.
O poder superior militar da nação garantiu sua vitória no conflito.
2. An authority or entity with greater jurisdiction or control
The superior power of the federal government overrides state decisions.
O poder superior do governo federal substitui as decisões estaduais.
3. A supernatural or divine force greater than human capability
He believed in a superior power guiding human destiny.
Ele acreditava em um poder superior guiando o destino humano.
The term 'superior power' is commonly used in legal, military, and religious contexts in both American English and Brazilian Portuguese. In Brazil, it frequently appears in constitutional and administrative law discussions, while in the USA it's often invoked in discussions of federalism and separation of powers. The phrase also carries weight in religious discourse across both cultures when referring to divine authority.
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