authority

Definition

  • noun: the power to give orders or make decisions
  • noun: a citation (as from a book or file) used in defense or support
  • often used with 'the'
  • synonyms: dominion, jurisdiction, authorization

Examples

  • “Who gave him the 'authority' to do this?” “He didn't do it 'on his own authority' [=he didn't do it on his own]; he was acting 'under the authority of' the company president.” [=the company president gave him the power to do it]

  • No one 'in authority' objected to the plan. = No one 'in a position of authority' objected to the plan. [=no one with official power to make important decisions objected to the plan]

  • This office has 'authority' over personnel matters. [=this office has the power to make decisions about personnel matters]

Movie quotes

  • (..) ...what replication should be made by the son of a king? - Take you me for a sponge, my lord? - Aye sir That soaks up the king's countenance, his rewards, his authorities But such officers do the king best service in the end When he needs what you have gleaned he will but squeeze you... (..)
    2015 Hamlet