ask for authority

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "ask for authority" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when requesting permission or approval from someone in a position of power or control. Example: "Before proceeding with the project, I need to ask for authority from my supervisor."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

2 human-written examples

To fill the hole, Mr. Paterson will ask for authority to cut every state budget by about 2 percent.

The New York Times

He is expected to ask for authority this year, but is unsure about what it should cover.Much of the mess reflects Mr Clinton's habitual indecisiveness in many areas of policy, not just trade.

The Economist

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

56 human-written examples

In its 2013 budget proposal, the Obama administration has asked for authority to alter the composition of the nickel, too.

The New York Times

For months Henry Paulson, Mr Bush's treasury secretary, held back from asking for authority to bail out the financial markets because he was convinced Congress would turn him down.

The Economist

Sources familiar with the investigation say that he sent a prosecution memo to DC two months ago asking for authority to indict a public figure (Spitzer).

The New York Times

For at least two months, the unchallenged assumption had been that the government would abstain at both Lloyds and RBS if the banks asked for authority to award 200% bonuses.

The Guardian - Business

In 1999, the Pentagon asked for authority to appoint a single military leader for the continental United States who could respond to a terrorist attack by, for example, ordering doctors and other emergency personnel to stricken areas.

The New York Times

The union complained to the trade group again, and asked for authority to impose $4 billion in sanctions, based on its estimate of the value of the tax breaks to American companies.

The New York Times

One day in May, at a meeting with the President and several cabinet members, McConnell asked for authority to wage information warfare against the tech-savvy insurgents in Iraq.

The New Yorker

Mr. Rumsfeld had asked for authority to spend $60 billion as he chose on the war in Iraq or other military needs; the House committee voted to give him $25.4 billion in discretionary spending, with the rest strictly apportioned among specific needs in the Iraq war.

The New York Times

The administration asked for authority to use a quarter of the $1.2 billion food aid budget provided to the Agency for International Development to buy corn, wheat and other commodities in the developing countries facing hunger crises, or in neighboring countries, rather than from American producers.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "ask for authority", clearly state the specific action or decision for which you are seeking authorization. Provide all necessary context to facilitate informed decision-making.

Common error

Avoid using "ask for authority" when you actually need advice or guidance. Authority implies a power to grant permission or approval, while advice involves offering counsel or suggestions.

Linguistic Context

The primary grammatical function of "ask for authority" is as a verb phrase indicating a request. It signifies the action of seeking permission or authorization from someone in a position of power or control. Ludwig provides examples where individuals or organizations "ask for authority" to undertake specific actions.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Wiki

20%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Science

5%

Encyclopedias

3%

Academia

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "ask for authority" is a grammatically correct and commonly used expression that signifies formally requesting permission or approval from someone in a position of power. According to Ludwig, this phrase is most frequently found in news and media contexts. While the phrase is generally acceptable, understanding its proper usage and potential alternatives can enhance clarity and precision in writing. Remember to clearly state the specific action requiring authorization and avoid confusing it with seeking advice. Alternatives such as "request permission" or "seek authorization" may be more appropriate depending on the specific context.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

Request permission

Focuses on the act of formally seeking permission.

Seek authorization

Implies a formal process of obtaining authorization.

Apply for consent

Highlights the need for consent or agreement.

Solicit approval

Emphasizes seeking a positive endorsement or agreement.

Petition for leave

Suggests a formal request for allowance or permission.

Obtain clearance

Focuses on getting official approval or clearance.

Secure endorsement

Highlights gaining support and endorsement.

Gain sanction

Implies receiving official permission or approval.

Invoke prerogative

Suggests calling upon a specific right or privilege.

Appeal for empowerment

Focuses on requesting the power or capacity to act.

FAQs

What does "ask for authority" mean?

To "ask for authority" means to formally request permission, approval, or authorization from someone who has the power or right to grant it.

When is it appropriate to use the phrase "ask for authority"?

It is appropriate to use "ask for authority" when you need official approval or clearance to proceed with a specific action, project, or decision.

What are some alternatives to "ask for authority"?

You can use alternatives such as "request permission", "seek authorization", or "apply for consent" depending on the context.

Is it better to "ask for authority" or simply inform someone of your intentions?

It depends on the situation. If the action requires formal approval or could have significant consequences, it's best to "ask for authority". Otherwise, informing them may suffice.