authorize up to

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "authorize up to" is correct and usable in written English. You can use it when specifying a maximum limit of authority or permission granted. Example: "The manager can authorize up to $5,000 for project expenses." Alternative expressions include "approve up to" and "permit up to."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

20 human-written examples

It would authorize up to $150 million for no-interest second mortgages of the type offered by New York City.

The New York Times

A.Apple lets you "authorize" up to five computers at a time to play copy-protected music, movies and other content purchased with your iTunes Store account.

The New York Times

Lawmakers voted for a November referendum on a proposal to amend the state's Constitution to authorize up to seven Las Vegas-style casinos.

The New York Times

If the drug approval, conditional approval, or index listing expressly allows a reorder (refill) the veterinarian can authorize up to the permitted number of reorders.

Cornell University

Note, too, that you can "authorize" up to three computers to play your downloaded songs, exactly as with iTunes and Napster.

The New York Times - Tech

The state has nine racetrack gambling parlors and five American Indian casinos; the amendment, which would have to be approved once more by the Legislature and then by voters, would authorize up to seven Las Vegas-style casinos.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

40 human-written examples

His board recently authorized up to about $800 million to invest in infrastructure projects.

The New York Times

The Defense Department has authorized up to 4,000 soldiers to be assigned to the border.

The New York Times

Cisco also said its board had authorized up to $15 billion in additional repurchases of its common stock.

The New York Times

The legislation tries to address that problem by authorizing up to $10 million over 10 years to help monitor the swell.

The New York Times

Later this month, Mayor Michael R. Bloomberg and the City Council are expected to adopt legislation authorizing up to 20 new pay toilets on the streets.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "authorize up to", ensure that the limit is clearly defined and relevant to the context. This avoids ambiguity and sets clear expectations.

Common error

Avoid using "authorize up to" without specifying a clear limit or condition. Failing to do so can create uncertainty and potentially lead to misuse or overreach.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "authorize up to" functions as a verb phrase that sets a limit on an action. Ludwig AI shows that it is used to specify the maximum extent of permission, approval, or allocation for something. It's commonly used in contexts where a defined limit is necessary.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

55%

Academia

20%

Formal & Business

15%

Less common in

Wiki

5%

Science

5%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "authorize up to" is a common and grammatically correct phrase used to set a limit on permission or action. Ludwig AI indicates it is most frequently found in News & Media sources, with neutral, professional registers. When using this phrase, ensure that you specify the exact limit to avoid any potential misinterpretations. Alternatives include "permit up to" or "approve up to", although these variations carry subtle differences in meaning. This phrase is most effective when clarity and precision are required in defining the extent of authorization.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

permit up to

Emphasizes allowance rather than formal authorization.

allow up to

Focuses on the act of not restricting, with an implied limit.

entitle up to

Suggests a right or qualification to a certain maximum.

approve up to

Highlights formal endorsement with a specified limit.

license up to

Implies an official permission with a quantifiable maximum.

sanction up to

Suggests a formal approval, often in the context of penalties or rewards.

empower to

Highlights granting authority or power, with a defined scope.

delegate authority for

Focuses on passing down responsibility or power, with a potential maximum.

give the go-ahead for

An idiomatic expression for approving something, implying a limit.

give leave to

Formal permission, often in legal or official settings, setting a limit.

FAQs

How can I use "authorize up to" in a sentence?

Use "authorize up to" to specify the maximum extent of permission or power granted. For instance, "The manager can "authorize up to" $1000 for employee expenses".

What are some alternatives to "authorize up to"?

Alternatives include "permit up to", "allow up to", or "approve up to", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it better to use "authorize up to" or "authorize a maximum of"?

"Authorize up to" is generally more concise and commonly used. "Authorize a maximum of" is more formal, but both are grammatically correct. Choose based on the desired tone and context.

What's the difference between "authorize" and "authorize up to"?

"Authorize" grants general permission, whereas ""authorize up to"" specifies a limit or maximum extent of that permission. The latter is more specific and restrictive.