a strong authority

USAGE SUMMARY

'a strong authority' is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when you want to emphasize the power of a governing figure, organization, or institution. For example, "The public health director is a strong authority on pandemic protocols."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

6 human-written examples

When leaders don't have a strong authority position, micropolitics is a necessary alternative.

The Guardian

Poland needs a strong government and a strong authority," Mazowiecki reportedly told Walesa after the trade union leader proposed that he form the new government.

The Guardian

Jörg Asmussen, a member of the E.C.B.'s Governing Council, emphasized in comments Wednesday in Brussels that Europe needed a strong authority capable of making quick and impartial decisions on winding up banks.

The New York Times

The answer is thus to reconcile the irreconcilable values of secrecy and accountability by guaranteeing both a strong authority of the government to prohibit leaks and an expansive right of others to disseminate information to the public.

The New York Times

They get to see wrongdoers publicly humiliated by a strong authority figure.

Wikipedia

Hassan II, the previous king, had an image among the Moroccan people of being a tough king with a strong authority.

Huffington Post

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

53 human-written examples

Finally, he felt that only a very strong authority would be able to prevent balkanization, but refused to rule as a dictator himself.

Wikipedia

His posture seems permanently slumped -- whether that's just his physique, or how he habitually stands, it is hard to say -- and it's hard to project the strong authority of a Commander in Chief if you look slumped.

Huffington Post

Two centuries of political turmoil, without a strong central authority, destroyed this courier system.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Somalis have come up with homegrown solutions in the absence of a strong central authority.

The Guardian

Hamilton stood stoutly for a strong central authority; Jefferson, for republican principles and states' rights.

The New York Times - Books

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a strong authority", ensure the context clearly defines the source and scope of the authority. This adds clarity and avoids ambiguity.

Common error

Avoid using "a strong authority" when describing entities with limited or questionable power. Overstating their influence can undermine your credibility.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a strong authority" functions as a noun phrase, where "strong" modifies the noun "authority". It typically serves as a subject or object in a sentence, denoting an entity possessing considerable power or influence. Ludwig examples illustrate its use in various contexts, confirming its grammatical role.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Wiki

25%

Encyclopedias

17%

Less common in

Science

8%

Formal & Business

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a strong authority" is a grammatically sound and generally accepted phrase used to describe an entity with significant power or influence. Ludwig AI indicates it is correct and usable. While not exceedingly common, it appears in a range of contexts, particularly news and media, Wiki and encyclopedias. When employing this phrase, ensure that the source and scope of the authority are clearly defined to maintain clarity and avoid misinterpretation. Consider related phrases like ""a powerful influence"" or ""a commanding presence"" for nuanced alternatives.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a powerful governing body

Emphasizes the power aspect but focuses on a group or institution.

a dominant force

Shifts the focus to the impact and influence exerted.

an influential figure

Highlights the person's capacity to affect decisions and actions.

a commanding presence

Focuses on the impression of control and power.

a firm leadership

Emphasizes the quality of leadership, focusing on resolve.

a decisive influence

Highlights the ability to make impactful decisions.

an imposing power

Stresses the scale and impact of the authority.

a central command

Specifies a central entity wielding authority.

an established order

Focuses on the accepted system of control.

a respected institution

Highlights the societal recognition and credibility of the authority.

FAQs

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

Use "a strong authority" to describe an entity or person with significant power or control. For instance, "The government needed to establish "a strong authority" to regulate the industry effectively".

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

You can use alternatives like "a powerful influence", "a dominant force", or "a commanding presence" depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

What does it mean to have "a strong authority"?

Having "a strong authority" implies possessing significant power, control, or influence over a particular domain. It suggests the capacity to enforce decisions and command obedience.

Is it better to say "a strong authority" or "powerful authority"?

Both "a strong authority" and "powerful authority" are correct, but ""a strong authority"" is slightly more common. The choice depends on the specific context and the emphasis you want to place on either the firmness or the sheer power of the authority.