the powers that be

phrase

: the people who decide what is allowed or acceptable in a group, organization, etc.
The students wanted to have a big party, but the powers that be didn't approve.

Examples of the powers that be in a Sentence

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Though many outlets are running with a 2027 target as possible, the truth is the powers that be aren’t ready to commit yet. — Fran Ruiz, Space.com, 11 Oct. 2026 As long as the powers that be continue to fund this thing, LSU and Kiffin will be fine. — Austin Perry Outkick, FOXNews.com, 11 Oct. 2026 There are committee members who are protecting their turf, not wanting to offend the powers that be. — Owen Gleiberman, Variety, 4 Oct. 2026 By waging an actual war on drugs, the powers that be in Washington are confusing tactical accomplishments with strategic ones. — Daniel Depetris, Chicago Tribune, 8 Sep. 2026 See All Example Sentences for the powers that be

Rhymes for the powers that be

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Browse Nearby Words

the power behind the throne
the powers that be
the present
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Cite this Entry

“The powers that be.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/the%20powers%20that%20be. Accessed 20 Oct. 2026.

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