American English
/əˈθɔ.ɹə.ɾi/
4 syllables · Stress the second syllable.
The official power or right to make decisions, give orders, or control a situation.
“Authority” is commonly pronounced /əˈθɔɹəɾi/; some American speakers use /əˈθɑɹɪɾi/ instead. Both are correct, and the final short vowel may sound like “uh” or “ih” in natural speech.
The official power or right to make decisions, give orders, or control a situation.
The manager has the authority to approve refunds.
No one has the authority to change the schedule.
legal authority · have the authority to · grant authority · abuse authority
have the authority to + verb
authority over + person/thing
A person or organization with official power, especially the power to enforce rules or laws.
The authorities closed the road after the storm.
She reported the theft to the authorities.
In news reports, the authorities usually means police or government officials.
local authorities · government authorities · contact the authorities · notify the authorities
the authorities + verb
report + something + to the authorities
A person whose knowledge is respected and trusted in a particular subject.
Dr. Lee is an authority on sleep medicine.
The book was written by a leading authority on climate policy.
a leading authority · a respected authority · recognized authority · an authority on a subject
be an authority on + subject
a leading authority on + subject
A confident, commanding quality that makes people listen and take you seriously.
She spoke with authority about the issue.
The coach gave instructions with quiet authority.
With authority means in a confident, commanding way; it does not mean with official permission.
speak with authority · quiet authority · natural authority
speak with authority about + subject
act with authority
The officials responsible for enforcing laws or dealing with a situation.
The authorities are investigating the fire.
A person whose role gives them power to guide, control, or discipline others.
Children often test the limits set by authority figures.
In a position of power or control.
People in authority must listen to different opinions.
The plural changes y to ies: authorities.