Authorities: meaning, definitions and examples
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authorities
[əˈθɒrɪtiz ]
Definitions
in control
People or organizations that have the power to make decisions, enforce rules, and control certain aspects of society.
Synonyms
government, officials, regulators.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| 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.
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| officials |
Refers to individuals who hold positions of authority, usually within a governmental or organizational context. They are responsible for implementing rules and policies.
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| 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.
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| 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'.
|
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.
experts
People with expertise or knowledge in a particular area, such as academics or professionals.
Synonyms
experts, scholars, specialists.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| 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.
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| 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.
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| 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.
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| 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.
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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.
Interesting Facts
Etymology
- The term comes from the Latin word 'auctoritas,' meaning authority or influence, which originally referred to an increase or growth.
- In Middle English, the word appeared as 'authorite,' highlighting the importance of expertise and knowledge in making decisions.
- The modern form reflects the blend of power and responsibility associated with governance and leadership.
Political Science
- In democracies, the concept of authority is rooted in the consent of the governed, where leaders are elected to represent the people's will.
- The separation of powers within a government divides authority into branches to prevent abuse and ensure a balance.
- Different political systems, like autocracies and monarchies, exhibit various ways of centralized authority, impacting how laws are created and enforced.
Sociology
- Authority can be classified into legitimate, coercive, and expert types, indicating different sources from which power is justified.
- Max Weber, a prominent sociologist, defined three types of authority: traditional, charismatic, and legal-rational, each associated with different societal structures.
- Social norms and cultural practices can also define informal authority, where certain individuals lead based on tradition or respect rather than official titles.
Education
- In academic settings, authority figures, such as teachers and administrators, set guidelines to facilitate learning and maintain order.
- Educational authorities often determine curriculum standards and policies to ensure quality education across schools and districts.
- Research shows that authoritative teaching methods, which combine structure with support, can enhance student engagement and achievement.
Psychology
- Studies on obedience, such as those by Stanley Milgram, reveal how people may follow authority figures even against their moral judgment.
- Authority can influence behavior and decision-making, showing the psychological impact of perceived power in social interactions.
- Understanding authority is critical in developing leadership skills and navigating dynamics in both personal and professional settings.
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