Definition
Corridors of Power: High-level areas where influential government decisions are made, often surrounded by an air of exclusivity and secrecy.
Related Terms and Expressions
Synonyms
- Ivory Tower
- Inner Sanctum
- Halls of Power
Antonyms
- Grassroots
- Rank and File
- Common Folk
Usage in Literature:
- Homecomings (1956) by C. P. Snow – Origin of the term.
- Corridors of Power (1964) by C. P. Snow – Cementing the term’s place in literary and everyday language.
Notable Quotes:
- “If a man hasn’t the right to his own cliché, who has?” — C. P. Snow
- “In the corridors of power, the wrong word can nip a career in the bud.” — Anonymous government aide
Provocative Proverbs & Sayings
- “The fish rots from the head down.”
- “The higher the monkey climbs, the more he shows his tail.”
- “Absolute power corrupts absolutely.”
Inspirational Musings 🧠
Inspirational Thought
“Remember, the corridors of power are but fancy roads leading to the same humble doorways where true brilliance often resides – within the realm of the common folk.” — W. T. Wittywords
Humorous Perspective 🤣
“Navigating the corridors of power without stepping on toes is like dancing in a minefield—a risky, yet fascinatingly elaborate jig!”
Pop Culture References 📚🎬🎵
-
Books:
- House of Cards by Michael Dobbs
- The Prince by Niccolò Machiavelli
-
Movies:
- The Ides of March (2011)
-
Songs:
- “Everybody Wants to Rule the World” by Tears for Fears
Engaging Quiz Time! 🧩
### Which of these terms refers to a place where important discussions happen?
- [x] Corridors of Power
- [ ] Bridges of Hope
- [ ] Tunnels of Silence
- [ ] Gardens of Thought
**Explanation:** "Corridors of Power" refers to places in government or organizations where influential decisions are made.
### Which book first coined the term "corridors of power"?
- [ ] The Prince by Niccolò Machiavelli
- [ ] House of Cards by Michael Dobbs
- [x] Homecomings by C. P. Snow
- [ ] 1984 by George Orwell
**Explanation:** C. P. Snow first coined this term in his 1956 novel *Homecomings*, before making it the title of another book.
### True or False: "Ivory Tower" means the same as "corridors of power."
- [ ] True
- [x] False
> **Explanation:** “Ivory Tower” typically refers to a secluded, sometimes elitist academic environment, separate from the realities, unlike "corridors of power" that's associated with political or bureaucratic influence.
### Which of these is a synonymous phrase?
- [x] Inner Sanctum
- [ ] Outer Limits
- [ ] Basement of Power
- [ ] Balcony of Decision
**Explanation:** “Inner Sanctum” can be used similarly to “corridors of power”, it implies intimacy within powerful decision-making zones.
☕️ Time to Brew Some Words 💡
Explore the endless interplay of power and language. Until next time, may your paths be clear, and your words ever potent!
Published by Wordsmith Wonders Press, October 2023
Author: W. T. Wittywords
