Reading Theme:
Authority: Definition, Usage & Common Mistakes (3 meaning)
Meaning 1：the official government (authority)
authority
/ɔːˈθɒrəti/
n.
The official group or person that has the power to make rules and decisions for others.
the official government
➕
/ði əˈfɪʃəl ˈɡʌvərnmənt/
n.
Refers to the official organization or body that holds power to govern, make laws, and enforce rules over a certain area or group of people.
📘 Details & Usage
📖 Root Explanation
From Latin 'auctoritas' (influence, command), related to 'auctor' (inventor, founder, promoter).
💡 Mnemonic
Think of an 'author' writing rules. An 'authority' is like an author of rules, having the power to create or enforce them.
📖 Example
The local authority has decided to plant more trees in the city park to improve air quality.
The local government has made the decision to increase the number of trees in the urban park for better air.
🔗 Collocations
local authority – the governing body of a town, county, or district
government authority – the official power or agencies of a state
in authority – holding a position of official power
🔄 Synonyms
government (n.) – the system or group of people governing an organized community
administration (n.) – the process or activity of running a government or organization
jurisdiction (n.) – the official power to make legal decisions and judgments
🚫 Antonyms
insubordination (n.) – defiance of authority; refusal to obey orders
rebellion (n.) – an act of violent or open resistance to an established government or ruler
anarchy (n.) – a state of disorder due to absence or nonrecognition of authority
🌱 Derivatives
authorize (v.) – to give official permission for or approval to
authoritarian (adj.) – favoring or enforcing strict obedience to authority
📖 Cultural Story
The word entered English via Norman French 'autorité' from Latin 'auctoritas', denoting official power and influence. In Roman law and politics, 'auctoritas' referred to the legitimate power and prestige of the Senate and magistrates, distinct from brute force ('potestas').
Meaning 2：a trusted expert (authority)
authority
/ɔːˈθɒrəti/
n.
A person who knows a lot about a subject and whose opinion is trusted.
a trusted expert
➕
/ə ˈtrʌstɪd ˈɛkspɜːt/
n.
Refers to a person who possesses extensive knowledge or specialized skill in a particular field, and whose opinions or works are therefore highly respected and influential.
📘 Details & Usage
📖 Example
Professor Chen is a leading authority on ancient Chinese history, and her new book is highly recommended.
Professor Chen is a foremost expert in the field of ancient Chinese history, and her latest publication comes with strong recommendations.
🔗 Collocations
leading authority – a foremost expert in a specific field
an authority on – an expert in a particular subject
cite an authority – to quote or refer to an expert as evidence
🔄 Synonyms
expert (n.) – a person who has a comprehensive and authoritative knowledge in a particular area
specialist (n.) – a person who concentrates on a specific subject or activity
pundit (n.) – an expert who is frequently called on to give opinions to the public
🚫 Antonyms
🌱 Derivatives
authoritative (adj.) – able to be trusted as being accurate or true; commanding and self-confident
Meaning 3：the official power (authority)
authority
/ɔːˈθɒrəti/
n.
The official power or right you have to do something or control something.
the official power
➕
/ði əˈfɪʃəl ˈpaʊə/
n.
Refers to the legitimate right, power, or permission granted to an individual or group to perform specific actions, make decisions, or control resources.
📘 Details & Usage
📖 Example
My manager gave me the authority to make small purchases for the team without asking for approval every time.
My supervisor granted me the official power to buy minor items for the group without needing to request permission on each occasion.
🔗 Collocations
have the authority to – possess the official right or power to do something
delegate authority – to give some of your official power or responsibilities to another person
exceed one's authority – to go beyond the limits of one's official power
🔄 Synonyms
power (n.) – the ability or official capacity to exercise control
jurisdiction (n.) – the official power to make legal decisions and judgments
mandate (n.) – an official order or commission to do something
🚫 Antonyms
powerlessness (n.) – lack of ability, influence, or power
impotence (n.) – inability to take effective action; helplessness
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