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Definitions

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.

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 census total includes 162 female rough sleepers in six local authority areas where the official data recorded none.

From BBC • Jun. 10, 2026

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

From Barron's • Jun. 9, 2026

The Cuban military was given essential authority over the tourism industry.

From The Wall Street Journal • Jun. 8, 2026

The people who ran the CDO machine at the various firms had acquired too much authority.

From "The Big Short" by Michael Lewis




Vocabulary lists containing authority


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