an act of state

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "an act of state" is correct and usable in written English.
It is typically used in legal or political contexts to refer to actions taken by a government or sovereign authority that cannot be challenged in court. Example: "The decision to grant asylum was considered an act of state, beyond the reach of judicial review."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

16 human-written examples

The source of such collective powers, however, was always an act of state.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Couldn't its friend Mr Blair indulge in an act of state intervention and preserve them as a national treasure?

Independent

The leading Cambodian opposition figure, Sam Rainsy, called the killing an "assassination" and an "act of state terrorism" on Facebook.

The New York Times

As you might have already heard, an act of state censorship has been declared against British pornography in the guise of innocuous regulation.

Independent

President Vladimir Putin, himself a former KGB officer, denounced "an act of state terrorism with hostage-taking" and later talked of "blackmail".

The Economist

Instead, on Monday, the plans to breach the eight-year air and sea blockade into Gaza – introduced after Hamas's rise to power – were foiled in what was described as "an act of state piracy in the Mediterranean sea" by activists.

Independent

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

44 human-written examples

These states were created as a result of the States Reorganization Act of 1956 that reorganized British-era states along linguistic lines.

Huffington Post

The evidence pointed to it being an act of state-sponsored terrorism.

The Guardian

The lethal attack was described by his wife's lawyers as an act of "state-sponsored terrorism" that put thousands of lives at risk.

Independent

But the lethal attack, described by his wife's lawyers as an act of "state-sponsored terrorism" that put thousands of lives at risk, has become a matter of bitter accusations and recriminations.

Independent

However the Scottish Government spokesman said: "The Scottish Government do not doubt the safety of Mr Al-Megrahi's conviction, (he) was found guilty of an act of state-sponsored terrorism and did not act alone.

Independent

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "an act of state" to describe actions that are generally considered beyond the scope of judicial review. Understand the legal implications of using this term, as it can signify actions immune to legal challenges within domestic courts.

Common error

Avoid using "an act of state" to describe actions by individuals or private organizations. This phrase specifically refers to actions authorized and carried out by a government or sovereign power. Don't confuse government endorsement with direct action by the state.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "an act of state" functions as a noun phrase, often serving as the subject or object of a sentence. As Ludwig AI confirms, it denotes governmental actions, particularly those immune to judicial review. Examples in Ludwig demonstrate its use in contexts like international law, terrorism, and governmental authority.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

65%

Encyclopedias

15%

Science

5%

Less common in

Wiki

5%

Formal & Business

5%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "an act of state" is a noun phrase denoting governmental or sovereign actions, typically those immune to domestic judicial review. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's grammatically correct and most frequently found in News & Media and Encyclopedias, indicating a formal register. When writing, it's vital to reserve this phrase for actions directly authorized by a government, avoiding its misuse for private or individual activities. Alternatives like "a governmental decree" or "an official action" may suit different contexts. The frequency of this term is common, suggesting its regular use in relevant discussions.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a governmental decree

This refers more specifically to an official order or decision issued by a government.

state action

A general term referring to any action taken by a state government or its agents.

a sovereign decision

Focuses on the power and authority behind the action, suggesting a final and unappealable judgment.

an official action

Broader term encompassing any action taken by someone in an official capacity.

executive order

A directive issued by the executive branch of government, often with the force of law.

a policy implementation

Implies the execution or enforcement of a specific policy.

a legislative enactment

Specifically refers to a law passed by a legislative body.

government intervention

Highlights the aspect of a government stepping in to influence events or markets.

exercise of authority

Emphasizes the power or right being used to perform the action.

political maneuver

Highlights the strategic or tactical aspect of a government's action.

FAQs

When is it appropriate to use the phrase "an act of state"?

Use "an act of state" to describe actions undertaken by a government or sovereign power, especially when those actions are considered non-reviewable by domestic courts.

What are some alternatives to "an act of state"?

Depending on the context, you could use alternatives like "a governmental decree", "a sovereign decision", or "an official action".

Is "an act of state" a legal term?

Yes, "an act of state" is a term often used in legal and political contexts to describe actions taken by a government that are not subject to judicial review.

What is the difference between "an act of state" and government policy?

Government policy refers to the general plans or principles guiding government action. /s/"An act of state" refers to a specific action taken in accordance with those policies, often with implications for international law or domestic legal proceedings.