authorize

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "authorize" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when granting permission or approval for something, often in formal or legal contexts. Example: "The manager will authorize the budget for the new project once all the necessary documents are submitted."

✓ Grammatically correct

Encyclopedias

Science

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Force may be used by states only for self-defense or pursuant to a UN Security Council decision giving appropriate authorization (e.g., the decision to authorize the use of force against Iraq by the United States and its allies in the Persian Gulf War in 1990 91).

Encyclopedia Britannica

This fluidity allows citizens to authorize their representatives and for traces of that authorization to be evident in what the representatives do and how representatives are held accountable.

SEP

McConnell, backed by the intelligence committee chairman, Richard Burr, is backing an alternative that would formally authorize the bulk surveillance program, as well as every other investigative authority for the government under Section 215 of the Patriot Act, which is currently set to expire on 1 June.

The Guardian

The Security Council voted on May 22 to lift economic sanctions against Iraq, cede wide-ranging authority to the U.S. and the U.K. over governing Iraq, and authorize a new role for the UN in rebuilding the war-ravaged nation.

Encyclopedia Britannica

And if it purports to authorize such acts (e.g. rape, theft, or infanticide), its authorization is morally void and of no effect (II-II q. 57 a. 2 ad 2); courts should not guide their adjudications by such laws (II-II q. 60 a. 5 ad 1).

SEP

Moreover there is a further question underlying the question of consent or authorization or expectation, namely that concerning what we ought to want, expect or authorize and what principles we ought to have.

SEP

In other developments on Thursday, as expected both chambers of the New Jersey legislature voted to authorize special investigative committees.

The Guardian

But the fact remains that a majority of five justices, including Roberts, also declared that Congress' power to regulate commerce does not authorize a mandate to buy a commercial product.

The Economist

Step one is to request legislation:The legislation would authorize the US government, in appropriately limited circumstances, to intervene at the appropriate time to avert the systemic risks posed by the potential insolvency of a significant financial firm.

The Economist

Although police forces commonly authorize their officers to possess firearms and to use them when necessary, not all police carry these lethal weapons.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Gore was reelected to the Senate in 1990, and in 1991 he was one of only 10 Democratic senators who voted to authorize the use of American military force against Iraq in the Persian Gulf War.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "authorize", ensure the context clearly indicates who is granting the permission or power and to whom it is being granted. This avoids ambiguity in legal and formal documents.

Common error

Avoid confusing "authorize", which means to give permission, with "author", which refers to the creator of a work. Using the wrong word can lead to misunderstandings in your writing.

Linguistic Context

The primary grammatical function of "authorize" is as a transitive verb. It requires a direct object, indicating what is being permitted or empowered. As Ludwig AI suggests, this verb is used to grant permission or power to someone to do something.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Encyclopedias

32%

Science

32%

News & Media

20%

Less common in

Formal & Business

8%

Wiki

4%

Reference

4%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the word "authorize" functions as a transitive verb signifying the granting of permission or power. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is deemed grammatically correct and frequently appears in formal writing, particularly in encyclopedias, science, and news media. When using "authorize", clarity regarding the grantor and grantee is crucial. Alternatives such as "give permission", "approve", and "empower" may be suitable depending on the context. Remember to distinguish "authorize" from "author" to avoid errors. Overall, understanding its proper use ensures precise and effective communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

give permission

Focuses on the act of explicitly granting permission for something.

grant authority

Emphasizes the delegation of power or control to someone.

give the go-ahead

An informal way to express approval or permission.

empower

Highlights the act of enabling someone to do something.

sanction

Implies formal approval or endorsement.

license

Suggests granting a formal license or permit.

endorse

Signifies public support or approval.

approve

Indicates agreement or acceptance of something.

warrant

Suggests justification or validation for an action.

certify

Implies official confirmation or verification.

FAQs

How is "authorize" typically used in a sentence?

The verb "authorize" is used to indicate granting permission or power to do something. For example, "The manager must "give permission" before any overtime is worked".

What are some alternatives to the word "authorize"?

Alternatives to "authorize" include "approve", "permit", or "empower", depending on the specific nuance you wish to convey.

What's the difference between "authorize" and "allow"?

"Authorize" implies a formal granting of power or permission, often with legal or official backing. "Allow" is more general and suggests simply not preventing something. For example, a contract "grants authority", while a parent might allow a child to stay up late.

Can "authorize" be used in both formal and informal contexts?

While "authorize" is often used in formal contexts like legal or official documents, it can also appear in less formal settings when emphasizing the granting of permission or power. The level of formality often depends on the surrounding vocabulary and tone.