To wield absolute power over rewards and punishments; to act dictatorially or autocratically.
在这个部门里，他资历最老，权力最大，几乎是威福由己，没有人敢轻易反驳他的决定。
In this department, he is the most senior and holds the most power; he almost dictates terms unilaterally, and no one dares to easily contradict his decisions.
Era:
Ancient
Frequency:
Synonym:
Story:
During the Tang Dynasty, Minister Liu Weizhi, troubled by Empress Wu Zetian's autocratic rule, wished to assist Emperor Ruizong.
On one occasion, he was imprisoned by Wu Zetian. Emperor Ruizong vehemently argued for his acquittal.
Liu Weizhi, however, said: 'The Empress Dowager holds absolute power over rewards and punishments and acts autocratically. If the Emperor attempts to rescue me, it will only add fuel to the fire, sealing my fate.'
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