Thesaurus.com
Dictionary.com

have authority

VERB
command
Synonyms
STRONGEST
determine direct dominate manage supervise take over wield
STRONG
administer boss charge check coach coerce compel conduct conquer constrain control curb dictate domineer exact force govern guide head hinder influence lead officiate oppress overbear override predominate prescribe prevail push regulate reign repress restrain run stop subdue superintend sway tyrannize
WEAK
exercise power hold office preside over reign over
Antonyms
STRONGEST
mismanage
STRONG
abandon advance aid allow assist comply consent encourage follow free give up help leave leave alone let go liberate lose neglect obey permit release retreat serve start submit surrender yield
WEAK
contradict countermand oppose recall reverse revoke

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.

Chinese regulators believe they have authority as Manus’s original company is Chinese.

From Barron's • Apr. 27, 2026

Specific ICE officials have authority to issue administrative warrants.

From Salon • Jan. 27, 2026

Is there also a chance that justices could say they just don’t have authority to overrule the commander-in-chief on this?

From Slate • Jan. 16, 2026

The OSC does not have authority to lay criminal charges against Mr Smith, but it can initiate disciplinary action or refer its findings to the Department of Justice.

From BBC • Aug. 2, 2025

But Captain Newport does have authority here, and I am sure he will not let them hang Captain Smith.

From "Blood on the River" by Elisa Carbone