Used and loved by millions

Since I tried Ludwig back in 2017, I have been constantly using it in both editing and translation. Ever since, I suggest it to my translators at ProSciEditing.

Justyna Jupowicz-Kozak

CEO of Professional Science Editing for Scientists @ prosciediting.com

I don't have the authority
Grammar usage guide and real-world examples

Alternative expressions(1)

I lack the power

Table of contents

Usage summary

Human-verified examples

Expert writing tips

Linguistic context

Ludwig's wrap-up

Alternative expressions

FAQs

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

15 human-written examples

I don't have the authority.

News & Media

The Guardian

I don't have the authority to do that," he says.

News & Media

Independent

"I don't have the authority to forgive them," he said.

News & Media

The New Yorker

That's not my job; I don't have the authority to establish best practices or make changes.

News & Media

The Guardian - Opinion

"If I don't have the authority to do it, I don't need the job," he said.

News & Media

The New York Times

"I don't have the authority to go knock on their door, but you do — and it still don't get done".

News & Media

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

45 human-written examples

We don't have the authority to do that.

News & Media

The New York Times

Regulators don't have the authority to force a solution.

News & Media

Forbes

They don't have the authority to change it.

News & Media

Forbes

They don't have the authority to do that.

News & Media

Huffington Post

Polytechnics were not considered, as they do not have the authority to grant doctoral degrees.

Science

Business Research

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Consider the audience and context when using this phrase. In formal settings, it's crucial to maintain a professional tone and avoid sounding dismissive or evasive. Explain the limitations clearly and offer alternative solutions or referrals if possible.

Common error

Avoid simply stating "I don't have the authority" without providing guidance on who does or what steps can be taken to address the issue. This can create frustration and impede progress. Always aim to redirect or offer alternative resources.

Antonio Rotolo, PhD

Digital Humanist | Computational Linguist | CEO @Ludwig.guru

Source & Trust

89%

Authority and reliability

4.6/5

Expert rating

Real-world application tested

Linguistic Context

The phrase "I don't have the authority" serves as a declarative statement expressing a lack of power, permission, or jurisdiction. It is used to communicate that the speaker is unable to take a particular action or make a specific decision. Ludwig provides examples demonstrating its common usage in various contexts.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

53%

Formal & Business

24%

Science

23%

Less common in

Academia

Encyclopedias

Wiki

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "I don't have the authority" is a common and grammatically correct phrase used to express a lack of power or permission. Ludwig's analysis reveals that it is most frequently found in News & Media, Formal & Business, and Science contexts. When using this phrase, it is best practice to redirect to who does have authority. Common errors include just stating the phrase without suggesting a solution or alternative. Related phrases include "I lack the power" and "I'm not authorized to". Ludwig also highlights that this phrase has a neutral tone, being suitable for both formal and informal communication.

More alternative expressions(6)

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

I'm not authorized to

Directly states the absence of official approval or permission.

I lack the power

Replaces 'authority' with 'power', focusing on the absence of ability.

I'm not empowered to do that

Emphasizes the lack of authorization or permission to act.

It's not within my jurisdiction

Indicates that the matter falls outside one's area of control.

I'm not in a position to

Focuses on the inability to act due to one's current circumstances or role.

I'm unable to take that action

Expresses an inability to act, often due to limitations or restrictions.

That's beyond my remit

Highlights that the task or decision is outside of one's assigned duties.

I can't take that upon myself

Highlights a lack of permission or willingness to assume responsibility.

I have no say in the matter

Indicates a lack of influence or decision-making power.

That's not my responsibility

Shifts the focus to the lack of obligation to take action.

FAQs

When is it appropriate to use "I don't have the authority"?

Use "I don't have the authority" when you genuinely lack the power, permission, or jurisdiction to take a specific action or make a decision. It's important to be clear about your limitations and redirect the request to the appropriate person or department.

What are some alternative ways to say "I don't have the authority"?

You can use alternatives such as "I lack the power", "I'm not authorized to", or "It's not within my jurisdiction" depending on the specific context.

What's the difference between "I don't have the authority" and "I'm not responsible"?

"I don't have the authority" means you lack the power or permission to act, while "That's not my responsibility" indicates that the task or issue falls outside of your assigned duties or obligations. You might have the authority to act, but it's simply not your job.

How can I use "I don't have the authority" professionally?

When using "I don't have the authority" in a professional setting, be polite and direct. Explain why you lack the authority and, if possible, offer a solution or redirect the person to someone who can assist them. For example, "I don't have the authority to approve this request, but I can direct you to the department head who does."

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Table of contents

Usage summary

Human-verified examples

Expert writing tips

Linguistic context

Ludwig's wrap-up

Alternative expressions

FAQs

Source & Trust

89%

Authority and reliability

4.6/5

Expert rating

Real-world application tested

Most frequent sentences:

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I don't have the authorityGrammar usage guide and real-world examples

I don't have the authority
Grammar usage guide and real-world examples