a clear authority

USAGE SUMMARY

"a clear authority" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
You might use it in a sentence to describe a figure that has a distinct ability to control or guide something, such as in the sentence "The mayor of the town has a clear authority over the decision making process."

✓ Grammatically correct

Formal & Business

News & Media

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

7 human-written examples

The COO did not create a clear authority boundary.

Harvard Business Review

Because the COO never enacts a clear authority boundary, the team gets lost in its own good feelings about itself.

Harvard Business Review

For example, his decision to ask the task forces for a variety of possible configurations rather than to come up with a single recommendation placed a clear authority boundary between himself and his subordinates.

Harvard Business Review

That case therefore, however it may be explained as one of the exceptional cases, is nevertheless a clear authority shewing that this Court has granted an injunction prohibiting the commission of an act in respect of which the Court could never have interfered by way of specific performance.

Harvard University

Scottish law was maintained as a separate system after the union in 1707 and from 1747 the central courts gained a clear authority over local institutions.

Wikipedia

"Just not having a clear line of command, a clear authority to direct questions to, not getting responses — never mind in a timely manner, not getting them at all in some cases — was very concerning, because obviously you have an expectation of accountability that is difficult to be met when you can't get information".

Vice

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

53 human-written examples

But while "Live in Europe 1967" is wilder at every turn, Davis maintains a clearer authority, a firmer hand at the wheel.

The New York Times - Arts

If Andersen is to survive, it needs a new leader with clear authority who is willing to apologize for the past and assure that those responsible -- either directly or because they failed to adequately supervise others -- leave the firm.

The New York Times

It starts there and having a clear direction and clear authority," Bryant said.

Los Angeles Times

It starts there and having a clear direction and clear authority.

Los Angeles Times

Wheeler, who at first tried to come up with a similar solution, decided instead to follow the court's suggestion and reclassify broadband as a utility to get clear authority to create and enforce net neutrality rules.

Los Angeles Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a clear authority", ensure the context specifies the source and limits of that authority to avoid ambiguity. For example, "The CEO has a clear authority over all strategic decisions."

Common error

Avoid using "a clear authority" when the authority is implied or assumed rather than explicitly defined. Instead, state the basis of the authority or use a more general term like "influence".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a clear authority" functions as a noun phrase, where the adjective "clear" modifies the noun "authority". It describes a state of having well-defined and recognized power or control. Ludwig AI shows examples from various contexts.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

30%

Academia

30%

Formal & Business

30%

Less common in

Science

3%

Wiki

3%

Encyclopedias

4%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "a clear authority" is used to describe a situation where power or control is well-defined and recognized. While Ludwig AI confirms the phrase is grammatically correct and provides examples of its usage, its frequency is rare, primarily appearing in news, academic, and business contexts. When using this phrase, ensure the context explicitly defines the authority to avoid ambiguity. Alternatives like "well-defined authority" or "unquestionable authority" may provide nuanced emphasis. Overall, while accurate, use this phrase judiciously, keeping in mind its formal tone.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

well-defined authority

Emphasizes the degree to which the authority is explicitly stated and understood.

unquestionable authority

Highlights that the authority is not disputed or challenged.

definite power

Focuses on the power aspect of the authority, suggesting it is explicit and certain.

explicit command

Stresses the direct and unambiguous nature of the command or control.

distinct jurisdiction

Emphasizes the specific area or scope over which the authority extends.

recognized power

Focuses on the fact that the authority is acknowledged and accepted by others.

established control

Highlights the aspect that control has been firmly set in place.

formal authorization

Stresses that the authority is granted through official channels.

delegated power

Indicates that the authority has been passed on from a higher source.

legitimate dominion

Suggests rightful and lawful control over something.

FAQs

How can I use "a clear authority" in a sentence?

You can use "a clear authority" to describe someone or something that possesses defined and recognized power or control. For example, "The judge has "a clear authority" in the courtroom."

What are some alternatives to saying "a clear authority"?

Alternatives to "a clear authority" include phrases like "well-defined authority", "unquestionable authority", or "explicit command", depending on the nuance you want to convey.

Is it better to use "a clear authority" or "clear authority"?

Both "a clear authority" and "clear authority" can be grammatically correct, but "a clear authority" is generally used when referring to a specific instance or individual possessing that authority, whereas "clear authority" can be used more generally.

What is the difference between "a clear authority" and "a clear mandate"?

"A clear authority" refers to the defined power or control someone possesses, while "a clear mandate" refers to the explicit permission or instruction to act in a certain way. Authority is the power to act; mandate is the instruction to do so.