Authority: meaning, definitions and examples

This word is best used when referring to a recognized or official right to make decisions, rules, or give orders.

• The teacher has the authority to discipline the students.
• She questioned his authority to make such a decision.

This word is used to describe the ability to influence or outright control the behavior of people or the course of events. It can be neutral or bear a negative connotation depending on the context.

• The president has the power to veto legislation.
• His power within the company is undeniable.

This word is appropriate when referring to the ability to direct or manage something or someone, often implying a degree of regulation or restriction.

• He has control over the entire project.
• The manager needs to maintain control over the budget.

This term is used when discussing the official power to make legal decisions and judgments, often within a specific geographic area or over certain types of cases.

• The crime fell under the jurisdiction of the local police department.
• This court has jurisdiction over family law cases.

Describes someone who has a proven power or control in a particular field, often due to their role or official position.

• She is an authority in environmental law.
• The government authority issued new regulations.

Refers to a person who has comprehensive and authoritative knowledge or skill in a particular area, often through experience.

• He is an expert in artificial intelligence.
• We need to consult an expert before making a decision.

Describes someone who focuses on a specific branch of a profession or field of study, usually with more detailed knowledge compared to general practitioners.

• She is a heart specialist working at the hospital.
• We need a software specialist to fix this bug.

Used for someone who is highly educated and skilled in academic research, often associated with universities or scholarly institutions.

• She is a renowned scholar in medieval history.
• The scholar published his findings in a prestigious journal.