So-called holding power. It means having authority.

Your understanding hits the core, explained thoroughly:

1. Literal breakdown

- 掌: control, grip, dominate
- 权: has two layers
① Shallow layer: authority (discourse power, prestige, deterrence that makes people obey)
② Deep layer: power (making rules, managing people, resources, decision-making enforcement)

2. One-sentence correction + summary
The phrase you said "holding power = mastering authority" is only half correct:
✅ Holding power necessarily includes mastering authority (convincing and commanding respect)
❌ But it’s not just authority; more fundamentally, it’s holding real power
3. Simple distinction

- Authority: soft power, others voluntarily respect and recognize you
- Power: hard power, if you don’t listen, you will be constrained or punished
- Holding power = holding real authority + authority, able to set rules and also suppress and control the situation

4. Extension based on the previous left-right division
Whether left or right, the ultimate struggle is "holding power":
Seizing power allows you to implement your reform ideas or maintain your traditional order.