acquire authority over

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "acquire authority over" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing gaining control, power, or influence over someone or something. Example: "In order to effectively lead the team, the manager must acquire authority over the project and its resources."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

1 human-written examples

But he also insisted that conquerors acquire authority over those they subject to their rule — "sovereignty by acquisition" — when they allow those subjects to go about their business.

SEP

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

58 human-written examples

By the end of the 3rd century the bishop of the provincial capital was acquiring authority over his colleagues: the metropolitan (from the 4th century on, often entitled archbishop) was chief consecrator of his episcopal colleagues.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Therefore, for the first time, the Plebeians seemed to have indirectly acquired authority over Patricians.

Wikipedia

A popular one acquires authority and a freedom to act.

Independent

Prisoners often form their own unspoken hierarchies, acquiring authority by preying on new inmates to gain power.

Vice

Prisoners often form their own unspoken hierarchies, acquiring authority by preying on new inmates and gaining them power.

Vice

A Medicare oversight board would gain authority over reimbursement rates.

The New York Times

A bishopric was established there by St. Boniface in the early 740s, and the bishops had acquired ducal authority over eastern Franconia by the 12th century.

Encyclopedia Britannica

He is not only secure in his position as leader, but has also acquired an authority over his traditionally assertive party.

Independent

Given that 74percentt of Syrians practice Sunni Islam, the Saudi government would like to use its religious authority and economic resources to acquire influence over a post-Assad order -- at Tehran and Hezbollah's expense.

Huffington Post

Over the years, forming band after band, releasing his music on his label, Screwgun, and generally working like a dog, he's acquired an authority, a virtuosity and a language.

The New York Times - Arts

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "acquire authority over", consider the context to ensure it accurately reflects the process of gaining authority, whether through formal means, earned respect, or other methods.

Common error

Avoid using "acquire authority over" when the authority is inherent or automatically granted, such as by a pre-existing legal framework. The phrase is more appropriate when describing a process of gaining authority through effort or circumstance.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "acquire authority over" functions as a verb phrase, indicating the action of gaining control or power. Ludwig AI examples show its usage in contexts of leadership, historical events, and personal development, illustrating how someone or something comes to possess authority.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

25%

Encyclopedias

20%

Science

20%

Less common in

Wiki

11%

Formal & Business

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "acquire authority over" describes the action of gaining control or influence and is considered grammatically correct. Ludwig AI confirms its validity and use in written English. While found in diverse sources, it is prevalent in news, encyclopedias and science. When using this phrase, consider the context to accurately reflect the process of gaining authority, as inappropriate use may overstate the source of that authority. Alternatives like "gain control over" or "establish dominance over" may offer nuanced substitutes. Overall, the phrase is a valuable tool for describing power dynamics and the assumption of control.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

Gain control over

Focuses on obtaining control rather than specifically authority.

Obtain power over

Emphasizes the acquisition of power, a broader concept than authority.

Assume command over

Highlights the act of taking command, implying a more direct and immediate assumption of authority.

Establish dominance over

Implies creating a superior position of control.

Secure influence over

Focuses on gaining influence, which is a subtler form of authority.

Take charge of

Describes assuming responsibility and control.

Seize control of

Suggests a more forceful or abrupt taking of control.

Win influence over

Indicates that influence is obtained gradually as a result of your personal qualities or actions.

Procure authority over

In comparison to acquire, procure denotes making a special effort to get the authority.

Attain power over

Stresses reaching a state of having authority and power.

FAQs

How can I use "acquire authority over" in a sentence?

You can use "acquire authority over" to describe the process of gaining control or influence, such as, "The new manager worked diligently to "acquire authority over" the team by demonstrating competence and fairness."

What are some alternatives to "acquire authority over"?

Alternatives include "gain control over", "obtain power over", or "establish dominance over", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is there a difference between "acquire authority over" and "have authority over"?

"Acquire authority over" describes the process of gaining authority, while "have authority over" indicates a state of already possessing authority. For instance, "She had to "acquire authority over" the project before she could effectively "have authority over" its budget and resources."

When is it appropriate to use "acquire authority over"?

It is appropriate when describing situations where someone actively works to or gradually achieves control, influence, or decision-making power in a specific area or over a group.