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authority

[uh-thawr-i-tee, uh-thor-] / əˈθɔr ɪ ti, əˈθɒr- /




Usage

What are other ways to say authority? Authority is a power or right, usually because of rank or office, to issue commands and to punish for violations: to have authority over subordinates. Control is either power or influence applied to the complete and successful direction or manipulation of persons or things: to be in control of a project. Influence is a personal and unofficial power derived from deference of others to one's character, ability, or station; it may be exerted unconsciously or may operate through persuasion: to have influence over one's friends.

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

Do not give an adviser withdrawal authority, read everything before signing, and get a lawyer or a certified public accountant to review the contract if necessary.

From MarketWatch • Jun. 11, 2026

Such an answer, he believes, would be "a global investigation authority with enough power to demand changes based on their recommendations."

From BBC • Jun. 10, 2026

The lawsuit cites the harm to clinics and claims the proposed spending requirement would interfere with federal authority.

From Los Angeles Times • Jun. 10, 2026

The U.K. antitrust authority is looking into the transaction, Bloomberg reported on Monday.

From Barron's • Jun. 9, 2026

It was Farmer’s style not to openly argue with authority, but he usually found ways to get what he wanted.

From "Mountains Beyond Mountains" by Tracy Kidder and Michael French




Vocabulary lists containing authority


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