arrogance of power

American  

noun

1. presumption on the part of a nation that its power gives it the right to intervene in the affairs of less powerful nations.

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Etymology

Origin of arrogance of power

First recorded in 1965–70

Example Sentences

See Examples For:

arrogance of power

Whether this is intentional behavior born of the arrogance of power or a symptom of a deteriorating mental state is somewhat beside the point.

From Salon ● May 26, 2026

When governments allow themselves to be drawn into war by intolerance or the arrogance of power, they plant the seeds of resentment that yield more hatred and violence.

From The Wall Street Journal ● Mar. 30, 2026

He called his defence "a manifesto... for all those who feel that the arrogance of power, corruption and lies has no place in the country where our children will grow up".

From Barron's ● Oct. 21, 2025

“It’s the arrogance of power so the disappearance of this kind of person is commonplace and happens all the time.”

From Washington Times ● Jul. 18, 2023

This poem, which appeared in 1897, at the time of the Queen's Jubilee, struck a warning note against the arrogance of power.

From Elson Grammar School Literature v4 by Elson, William H.