by authority

USAGE SUMMARY

"by authority" is a grammatically correct phrase that can be used in written English.
You can use it when someone has acted with the power or permission of a higher authority, or when discussing the power or authority of a specified person or entity. Example: "The principal issued the ruling by authority, emphasizing that it was final and could not be overturned."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

56 human-written examples

Publications and authors are also ranked by authority.

TechCrunch

They should challenge false assertions by authority.

The New York Times

How influenced can we be by authority?

The New York Times

One red here is probably separated by authority.

The New Yorker

Untrammelled by authority, he was free to think creatively.

The New Yorker

Clearly, the fault lies in the sports environment that permits bullying by authority figures.

The New York Times - Sports

By authority, we mean supervising others, influencing their pay and being able to hire or fire.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

4 human-written examples

Yarrow surely was questioned by authorities.

The New York Times

That has not been confirmed by authorities.

The Guardian

It is a decision made by authorities, not by students.

The Guardian

It was later found and killed by authorities.

Independent

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "by authority" to clearly indicate that an action or decision is sanctioned or dictated by a recognized power or source. This adds a sense of legitimacy and formality to your writing.

Common error

Avoid using "by authority" when the source of power is unclear or illegitimate. Ensure that the authority you're referencing is well-defined and recognized to maintain credibility.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "by authority" functions as a prepositional phrase that typically modifies a verb or noun, indicating the source or basis upon which an action is carried out or a decision is made. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is grammatically correct. Examples demonstrate its use in attributing actions to a legitimate power.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

65%

Science

20%

Formal & Business

5%

Less common in

Wiki

3%

Encyclopedias

2%

Academia

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "by authority" is a grammatically sound prepositional phrase widely used to denote actions or decisions sanctioned by a legitimate power or source. Ludwig AI confirms its correct usage. It frequently appears in News & Media and Scientific contexts, carrying a neutral to formal register. To enhance clarity, ensure the authority is well-defined when using this phrase. Alternatives such as "with authorization" or "under official sanction" can provide similar meanings with slightly different emphasis. Proper usage contributes to the credibility and formality of written communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

with authorization

Replaces "authority" with a synonym emphasizing official permission.

under official sanction

Highlights that the action is officially approved or endorsed.

with due permission

Emphasizes that the action is allowed by a recognized power.

on the strength of power

Focuses on the power that enables the action.

in an authoritative manner

Shifts the focus to the way something is done, rather than the permission itself.

by virtue of office

Specifies that the authority comes from holding a particular position.

pursuant to authority

A more formal way of saying "in accordance with" authority.

with the backing of power

Emphasizes the support and resources behind the authority.

in exercise of power

Focuses on the act of using authority.

according to the power vested

Highlights the legitimacy of the authority being used.

FAQs

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

Use "by authority" to indicate that an action or decision is made with the permission or power of a recognized source. For instance, "The changes were implemented by authority of the board of directors."

What's the difference between "by authorization" and "by authority"?

"By authorization" emphasizes the act of granting permission, while "by authority" highlights the power or right to command or enforce. Authority is the underlying power; authorization is the explicit permission.

When is it appropriate to use "by authority" in formal writing?

It is appropriate in legal, official, or academic contexts where the legitimacy and source of power need to be clearly established. Ensure that the context warrants a formal tone.

What phrases can I use instead of "by authority" to convey a similar meaning?

You can use phrases such as "with authorization", "under official sanction", or "with due permission" depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.