carry authority

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "carry authority" is correct and can be used in written English.
It means to hold or possess power or influence over something or someone. Example: "The CEO's words carry authority in the company and are always carefully considered by the employees."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

6 human-written examples

They carry authority.

The New York Times - Books

Does he or she carry authority?

The Economist

Dressing so that you look comfortable yet carry authority is the secret.

The Guardian

"I think public television documentaries carry authority and raise interesting questions.

The New York Times

When Pamela Chisholm speaks of redemption during the morning prayer service at the Bowery Mission Women's Center, her words carry authority.

The New York Times

"The Turner Prize will only carry authority while it continues to be awarded to artists who are seen, in a relatively short time, to have merits that perhaps people didn't recognize at that moment.

The New Yorker

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

54 human-written examples

Her deep voice, with its smoker's rasp, carries authority.

The New York Times - Magazine

He spoke calmly, but his voice carried authority.

The New Yorker

On education, the party's shadow secretary of state Phil Willis carries authority as a former headteacher.

The Guardian

Even in a spoof like "Men in Black," his ease and quickness carried authority (and he didn't let the grinning Will Smith ace him out).

The New Yorker

Yet, the use of a symbolic third, carrying authority, can avoid the too direct confrontation with the patient.

L'Encéphale

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing someone's ability to "carry authority", consider specifying the source or basis of their authority for clarity.

Common error

Avoid using "carry authority" in contexts where it might imply an oppressive or dictatorial style. Ensure the situation warrants legitimate influence, not forceful control.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "carry authority" functions as a predicate within a sentence, describing the attribute of a subject. Ludwig shows its use across various contexts, indicating a broad applicability.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Science

25%

Formal & Business

25%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "carry authority" is a grammatically correct and frequently used expression that signifies influence or credibility. Ludwig AI confirms its validity and versatility across various formal and neutral contexts, primarily in news, media and science. When using the phrase, it's crucial to consider the source of the authority and avoid implications of authoritarianism. Alternatives such as "wield influence" and "command respect" offer nuanced ways to express similar concepts.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

have influence

A more straightforward way of expressing the possession of influence.

possess credibility

This variant highlights the trustworthiness and believability associated with the authority.

be influential

Describes the quality of having influence, rather than the act of carrying it.

wield influence

This alternative focuses on the active use of influence, rather than simply possessing it.

exert power

This alternative highlights the application of power, suggesting a more forceful approach.

command respect

This alternative emphasizes the respect that someone or something earns or receives.

hold sway

This option suggests a more dominant or controlling influence.

bear weight

This alternative emphasizes significance and impact, rather than direct control.

have the force of

This variant focuses on the strength and impact of the authority.

have the upper hand

This alternative signifies a position of advantage or control in a specific situation.

FAQs

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

You can use "carry authority" to describe someone or something that possesses influence or credibility, such as "The professor's words "carry authority" due to her expertise".

What's the difference between "carry authority" and "have authority"?

"Carry authority" often implies a more active or recognized influence, while "have authority" simply states the possession of power or control. For example, a judge might "have authority", but their rulings ""carry authority"".

What can I say instead of "carry authority"?

You can use alternatives like "wield influence", "command respect", or "have influence" depending on the context.

Is it better to say something "carries authority" or "has authority"?

The best choice depends on the context. "Carries authority" suggests the subject's influence is actively felt or recognized, while "has authority" simply indicates possession of that power. Using ""carry authority"" often adds a sense of weight or importance.