Authorities: meaning, definitions and examples

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authorities

 

[ əˈθɒrɪtiz ]

Noun
Context #1 | Noun

in control

People or organizations that have the power to make decisions, enforce rules, and control certain aspects of society.

Synonyms

government, officials, regulators.

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Word Description / Examples
authorities

Used to refer to organizations or people with power or control in a general sense. It encompasses various forms of control, including law enforcement or institutional control.

  • The local authorities are investigating the cause of the fire.
  • Public health authorities recommend getting vaccinated.
officials

Refers to individuals who hold positions of authority, usually within a governmental or organizational context. They are responsible for implementing rules and policies.

  • City officials met to discuss the new urban development plan.
  • Health officials are urging the public to follow safety guidelines.
government

Used specifically to refer to the governing body of a nation, state, or community. It implies the organized political direction and control over a community.

  • The government has announced new policies to combat climate change.
  • Citizens are required to pay taxes to the government.
regulators

Used to describe individuals or organizations specifically tasked with supervising and enforcing rules and regulations in certain industries or sectors. Carries a more specialized meaning than 'authorities'.

  • Financial regulators are monitoring the activities of major banks.
  • Environmental regulators updated the standards for clean water.

Examples of usage

  • The local authorities are responsible for maintaining public order in the city.
  • The authorities have launched an investigation into the corruption scandal.
Context #2 | Noun

experts

People with expertise or knowledge in a particular area, such as academics or professionals.

Synonyms

experts, scholars, specialists.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
authorities

This term is used to refer to people or organizations in positions of power or control, often in government or official contexts.

  • The authorities have issued a warning about the severe weather conditions.
  • Local authorities are investigating the incident.
experts

This term is used for people who have a high level of knowledge or skill in a particular area, often consulted for their opinions or advice.

  • Experts predict a significant change in the market trends this year.
  • We consulted several health experts about the new vaccine.
specialists

This term refers to people who focus on a specific field or area of expertise, often within a profession or industry. It emphasizes their in-depth knowledge in that particular domain.

  • We need to consult an IT specialist to resolve the technical issues.
  • The hospital has a team of specialists in pediatric care.
scholars

This term is used for individuals who have studied a subject in great depth, typically in an academic setting. It usually implies someone involved in research or teaching.

  • Several scholars have published papers on ancient Greek literature.
  • The conference attracted many scholars from universities around the world.

Examples of usage

  • The authorities on climate change predict more severe weather patterns in the future.
  • He consulted with the authorities in the field before making a decision.

Translations

Translations of the word "authorities" in other languages:

🇵🇹 autoridades

🇮🇳 अधिकारियों

🇩🇪 Behörden

🇮🇩 otoritas

🇺🇦 влада

🇵🇱 władze

🇯🇵 当局

🇫🇷 autorités

🇪🇸 autoridades

🇹🇷 yetkililer

🇰🇷 당국

🇸🇦 السلطات

🇨🇿 orgány

🇸🇰 úrad

🇨🇳 当局

🇸🇮 oblasti

🇮🇸 yfirvöld

🇰🇿 билік органдары

🇬🇪 ხელისუფლება

🇦🇿 hakimiyyətlər

🇲🇽 autoridades

Etymology

The word 'authorities' originated from the Middle English word 'autorite', which came from the Old French word 'autorité', ultimately derived from the Latin word 'auctoritas'. The concept of authorities has been integral to human societies throughout history, with various forms of authority structures evolving over time.

See also: authored, authoring, authoritarian, authoritative, authority, authorization, authorize, authorized, authorizer, authors, authorship.

Word Frequency Rank

Positioned at #1,223, this word is part of core intermediate vocabulary. It appears regularly in various contexts and is essential for natural-sounding English.