a one-time authority

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a one-time authority" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to refer to someone or something that has the power or right to make decisions or enforce rules, but only for a single occasion or instance. Example: "The committee appointed a one-time authority to oversee the special event and ensure everything ran smoothly."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

1 human-written examples

"This would grant me as governor a one-time authority to balance our current budget, preserve our credit rating and keep New York afloat," the governor said, adding, "If the Legislature is unwilling to make the necessary cuts, I will".

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

58 human-written examples

In an interview, he said that if the Legislature ultimately offered the authority a one-time cash infusion, the authority should go ahead with the fare increase and use the state funds to pay for long-term maintenance, or perhaps hold onto it to help close the budget gap next year.

The New York Times

In a separate program, the power authority is setting up a one-time, $1 million rate-payer-advocacy fund to, in the authority's words, "assist consumer groups who represent rate payer interests within the LIPA service area".

The New York Times

But Qatar, the host, struck useful oil and gas deals.After Ayatollah Montazeri, a one-time heir to Khomeini, challenged the authority of Iran's current Supreme Leader, conservative students and militia attacked his house in Qom, destroying part of it.To mark his fourth anniversary in power, General Sani Abacha, Nigeria's ruler, dissolved his cabinet.

The Economist

According to the current Atlantic Monthly, a one-time IRA informer was left by British authorities to be killed by an IRA interrogator, who was also working for the British.

The Guardian - Opinion

It's usually a one-time thing.

The New York Times

"It was just a one-time thing.

The New York Times - Sports

The landing was a one-time drama.

The New York Times

This is not a one-time effort.

The New York Times - Books

This is a one-time exemption.

The New York Times

That was mostly a one-time exposure.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a one-time authority", clearly define the scope and limitations of that authority to avoid ambiguity.

Common error

Avoid assuming that "a one-time authority" grants lasting or broad powers. It is crucial to specify that its power is limited to a single instance or event.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a one-time authority" functions as a noun phrase, specifically an attributive noun phrase, describing the nature of the authority. According to Ludwig AI, the phrase is correct and can be used in written English.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Formal & Business

30%

Wiki

10%

Less common in

Science

7%

Encyclopedias

7%

Reference

6%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a one-time authority" is a grammatically correct and usable phrase that specifies a limited and non-recurring grant of power or authorization. While not extremely common, its meaning is clear, and it is appropriate for various contexts, particularly in news, business, and formal communications. As Ludwig AI suggests, it denotes power that is granted only for a single use, event, or period. When using this phrase, ensure that the context clearly defines the scope and limitations of the authority to avoid any ambiguity.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

temporary authorization

Emphasizes the limited duration of the authorization, similar to "one-time".

limited-time power

Highlights the restricted timeframe for exercising power.

provisional authority

Suggests a temporary grant of authority, often pending a more permanent arrangement.

interim authority

Indicates authority held during a transitional period.

short-term authorization

Clearly specifies the authorization's brevity.

single-use authorization

Highlights the fact that the authorization can only be used once.

time-bound authority

Focuses on the temporal limitation of the authority.

episodic authority

Conveys that the authority is granted for a specific episode or event.

non-recurring authorization

Emphasizes that the authorization will not be repeated.

situational authority

Indicates the authority is specific to a particular situation and not ongoing.

FAQs

How can I use "a one-time authority" in a sentence?

You can use "a one-time authority" to describe someone or something that is granted power or permission for a single event or instance. For example, "The governor was granted "a one-time authority" to balance the budget".

What are some alternatives to "a one-time authority"?

Alternatives include "temporary authorization", "provisional authority", or "single-use authorization" depending on the specific context.

What's the difference between "a one-time authority" and "permanent authority"?

"A one-time authority" refers to power granted for a single instance or event, whereas "permanent authority" implies an ongoing and unrestricted power.

Is it correct to use "a one-time authority" in formal writing?

Yes, "a one-time authority" is acceptable in formal writing, but ensure the context clearly indicates the limited scope of the authority. Consider using alternatives like "temporary authorization" for added clarity.