Washington, essentially powerless, was unable to stop the country from falling apart.

Residents of the club district are essentially powerless to block them, community board members say, because the area is zoned for manufacturing.

He is essentially powerless and just a figurehead.

By the 12th century, the council was essentially powerless as a separate entity, though it seems clear that the system was never formally dismantled.

The plan, whose approval was expected, leaves the company's board in place, but essentially powerless.

Ando protests that Peter must not go after learning that he is essentially powerless without the presence of another hero.

The Senate, due to being essentially powerless, was regarded by many as an unnecessary expenditure.

Justice Wylie explained that his court, up against the power of the military, was essentially powerless to enforce its order.

That Connecticut's top criminal prosecutor is essentially powerless suits the state's political establishment just fine.

Outrageous she might be, but essentially powerless.