Formal and Informal Expressions of authorities

In different contexts, you can replace 'authorities' with suitable alternatives. In a more formal setting, 'officials, government' is apt. In informal speech or writing, 'powers that be, higher-ups' is a commonplace synonym.

authorities: Explore its Definition & Usage

authorities Definition

1the power or right to give orders, make decisions, and enforce obedience.
2a person or organization having official power in a particular area.

Using authorities: Examples

Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "authorities" can be used in various situations through the following examples!

Example
The authorities are investigating the cause of the fire.
Example
The local authorities have issued a warning about the storm.
Example
The authorities have arrested several suspects in connection with the robbery.

authorities Synonyms and Antonyms

Synonyms for authorities

Phrases with authorities

the authorities
the people or organizations that have official power in a particular area
Example
The authorities have not yet released any information about the accident.
in authority
having official power or control over something
Example
The manager is the person in authority in this office.
challenge authority
to question or resist those who have official power
Example
The students decided to challenge the authority of the school administration.

Origins of authorities

from Old French 'autorité', from Latin 'auctoritas', from 'auctor' meaning 'originator'

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Summary: authorities in Brief

The term 'authorities' [əˈθɒrətiz] refers to the power or right to give orders, make decisions, and enforce obedience. It can also refer to a person or organization having official power in a particular area. Examples include 'The authorities are investigating the cause of the fire.' and 'The local authorities have issued a warning about the storm.' Phrases like 'in authority' and 'challenge authority' use 'authority' to denote official power or control.