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

  • (..) malfunction with your phone... which I have repaired. Well, I must now return to my office and report my adjustments. According to the authorities in Nice, he has so far demolished one swimming pool and two trucks. And he's on his way to Gstaad. Gstaad? Yes. Today, a paradise in the Swiss Alps, (..)
    1975 The Return of the Pink Panther
  • (..) house search of Lugash for the thief... "who Monday night stole the fabled Pink Panther diamond... "from the Royal Museum here. "According to authorities the only clue is a white monogrammed man's glove... with the initial 'P'." Well, what do you think? That you didn't spend your time (..)
    1975 The Return of the Pink Panther