in authority

ADJECTIVE

responsible

Synonyms

STRONGEST

answerable culpable guilty liable pledged subject

WEAK

at fault at the helm authoritative bonded bound bound to carrying the load censurable chargeable compelled constrained contracted decision-making devolving on duty-bound engaged executive exposed fettered hampered held high in control incumbent minding the store obligated obliged on the hook open susceptive sworn to tied to blame under contract under obligation

Antonyms

STRONGEST

innocent right unaccountable

WEAK

excused exempt free immature immune irresponsible untrustworthy

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.

They say the data justify renewing the charter for a five-year term — if they can only get those in authority to look at it.

From Los Angeles Times • Jun. 16, 2026

He told the BBC no-one in authority has given a "single answer" as to what might have happened to her.

From BBC • Jun. 4, 2026

"People in authority lie," the government official continued, adding that people must act as "the CEOs of our own health."

From Barron's • Jan. 15, 2026

The effect has been to weaken public faith in authority more widely.

From The Wall Street Journal • Nov. 10, 2025

“They’re next in authority to the mayor. Though I don’t like them much,” she added, remembering how she’d been so roughly hustled down the stairs from the roof of the Gathering Hall.

From "The City of Ember" by Jeanne DuPrau

in authority

Example Sentences

Related Words