Authority meaning in English
Learn how to use Authority correctly with Gymglish.
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Definition
the authorities: the government, a group of people with official responsibility; the experts
The authorities have declared marshal law in the region. It was a government decision.
The doctors at the Mayo Clinic are the leading authorities on cancer research in the U.S. They are experts in their field.
Examples
- "The authorities have blamed a faulty switch for the catastrophe, which will cost the state five to six million euros."
- "Authorities suspect the balloon was commandeered by a passenger, eccentric fragrance enthusiast Bruno Delavigne at approximately 11:30 pm."
- "Kevin : But, you don't have the authority!"
- "Authorities speculated that the group's chance for survival was "slim to none", then specified that it was closer to .006 percent."
- "Authorities are currently investigating possible links to notorious perfume magnate Kalvin Krime."
- "The thing is though, the Spanish authorities are being a bit difficult."
- "But you should know that I don't have the authority to finalize such decisions."
- "Authorities don't yet know who is behind the virus, but they do know the motive: to steal people's money."
Exercise 1
When Kevin tells the meter man, "you don't have the authority!", he is arguing that he doesn't have to have Kevin's car towed.
When Kevin tells the meter man, "you don't have the authority!", he is arguing that he doesn't have the power to have Kevin's car towed.
the power: Kevin tells the meter man that he "doesn't have the authority" to tow his car. In this context, "authority" and "power" are synonymous. Kevin believes that the meter man doesn't have the "right" to tow his car.
the strength: Kevin is not referring to the meter man's physical force or "strength" when he questions his "authority". Kevin is saying that the meter man doesn't have the right or power to have his car towed.
the guts: Kevin is not referring to the meter man's "guts", "courage" or "bravery" when he questions his "authority". Kevin is saying that the meter man doesn't have the right or power to have his car towed.
a reason: Kevin is not referring to the meter man having a "reason" or "cause" when he questions his "authority". Kevin is saying that the meter man doesn't have the right or power to have his car towed.
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