assume authority

USAGE SUMMARY

"assume authority" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to refer to a person taking on the power and responsibility associated with a particular role or position. For example, "When she was promoted to head of the department, she had to assume authority."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

28 human-written examples

After the plane crashes, there are no adult survivors to assume authority.

The New York Times

When something menacing appears, our higher reasoning centers are inhibited and our reptilian brains assume authority.

Harvard Business Review

"June 30 will not be some magical date when Iraqis suddenly assume authority," said Dan Senor, an American adviser.

The New York Times

(In I Timothy 2 12, Paul says, "I do not permit a woman to teach or to assume authority over a man; she must be quiet").

The New Yorker

The agency also said that it had been trying since 2007 to strike a deal under which it would assume authority over BlackBerry services within that country.

The New York Times

Under the law that created the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau, it will assume authority on July 21 for enforcing a wide range regulations.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

32 human-written examples

For instance, assume authorities only considered citizens with the highest WTP USS $344).

Latin American Economic Review

With anyone who assumes authority over you".

The Guardian

With her firm opinions and her ramrod posture, Apollonia assumes authority easily.

The New Yorker

Radek's Washington office assumed authority and allowed witnesses to skip the country.

The New York Times

The Palestinian Authority, with its own deep-seated problems, had assumed authority over most of the Palestinian population.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "assume authority", ensure the context clearly indicates the legitimacy or basis of the authority being assumed. For example, specify whether it's due to appointment, election, or self-declaration.

Common error

Avoid using "assume authority" when the individual or entity lacks the necessary qualifications or permissions. Clearly define the limits of the authority being assumed to prevent overreach or misinterpretation.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "assume authority" functions as a verb phrase, where "assume" is the verb and "authority" is the direct object. Ludwig provides examples where the phrase describes the action of taking on power or control.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

52%

Academia

24%

Encyclopedias

12%

Less common in

Science

4%

Wiki

4%

Formal & Business

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "assume authority" is a grammatically sound and frequently used expression that describes the act of taking on power or control. As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase is correct and appropriate for use in written English. It commonly appears in news, academic, and encyclopedic contexts. When using "assume authority", clarity is key, ensuring the basis and scope of the authority are well-defined. While alternatives like "take control" and ""take charge"" exist, "assume authority" carries a specific nuance of stepping into a defined role with associated responsibilities.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

take control

This alternative focuses on the act of gaining control, which is a key aspect of assuming authority.

take charge

This alternative emphasizes the act of leading and directing, similar to assuming authority.

take command

This alternative suggests a more formal or military context of assuming authority.

exercise power

This alternative highlights the practical application of authority that is assumed.

assert control

This alternative emphasizes the act of confidently establishing control.

step into a leadership role

This alternative clarifies the context of authority as being within a leadership position.

become the leader

This alternative emphasizes the attainment of leadership as a result of assuming authority.

take responsibility

This alternative focuses on accepting accountability, which often accompanies assuming authority.

shoulder responsibility

Similar to taking responsibility, this option puts more stress on willingness to bear a burden.

take over

This alternative suggests succeeding someone in a position of power or control.

FAQs

What does "assume authority" mean?

To "assume authority" means to take on power or control, often implying a transition or a new responsibility. It suggests stepping into a role where one can make decisions and exert influence.

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

You can use "assume authority" to describe someone taking charge: "After the manager's resignation, she had to "take charge" and "assume authority" over the project".

What are some alternatives to "assume authority"?

Depending on the context, you could use alternatives like "take control", ""take charge"", or "exercise power".

Is there a difference between "assume authority" and "have authority"?

"Assume authority" implies the act of taking on authority, whereas "have authority" indicates the possession of existing power. One describes a process; the other, a state.