claim of authority

USAGE SUMMARY

"claim of authority" is correct and usable in written English in certain contexts.
It refers to a statement or assertion made by someone in a position of power or expertise, asserting their authority on a topic or situation. Example: The CEO's claim of authority over the company's finances was contested by the board of directors.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

14 human-written examples

Ms. Harris's claim of authority clearly cannot be the last word on this election.

The New York Times

That earlier "at the moment" hinges it to the subjective, freeing it from any claim of authority.

The New Yorker

And in an unprecedented claim of authority, Mr. Khamenei ordered the new Parliament not to overturn the draconian press law.

The New York Times

The claim of authority for 12333 is the president of the United States' constitutional powers for the conduct of foreign policy.

The Guardian

The administration's claim of authority to set up military commissions, as the tribunals are formally known, was guided by a desire to strengthen executive power, officials said.

The New York Times

Judges "make decisions in the same way that other people make decisions," Mr. Landsman said, but "getting that idea out and following up its implications has been very difficult because it threatens a judge's claim of authority and trustworthiness".

The New York Times - Arts

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

42 human-written examples

The Native American writer Sherman Alexie has implicated Kingsolver among "Indian poseurs" who make "claims of authority [as] something they're not".

The Guardian - Books

It does not specify what the constitutional requirements are, an ambiguity which has allowed rival claims of authority to be advanced by parliament and the executive.

The Guardian

The first and most important thing to say about the Carry Ons is that they are devoted to puncturing the absurd claims of authority whether that is represented by Caesar or the Commanding Officer, Robespierre or Matron.

The Guardian - Film

Supporters of IS point out that their leader has a PhD in Islamic studies from Baghdad University and claims to be of noble and learned stock.Governments in the Middle East are trying to counter such new claims of authority by imposing their own versions of Islam.

The Economist

The various forces who have challenged the American-led administration include Arab nationalists in Mosul, who look with suspicion on the close ties between the Untied States and the region's Kurds, and two returned Iraqi exiles in Baghdad, whose claims of authority in the capital are being rejected by American officials.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "claim of authority", ensure the context clearly indicates who is making the claim and what the basis of their authority is. This adds clarity and credibility to your writing.

Common error

Avoid using "claim of authority" when the basis of the authority is weak or non-existent. This can undermine your argument and damage your credibility.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "claim of authority" functions as a noun phrase, typically acting as the subject or object of a sentence. It denotes the act of asserting or professing a right to exercise power or control. As Ludwig AI underlines, this expression is correct.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Science

30%

Encyclopedias

15%

Less common in

Wiki

5%

Formal & Business

5%

Social Media

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "claim of authority" serves to denote the assertion of power or control. Ludwig AI identifies its usage as correct. It is most commonly found in News & Media and Science contexts, carrying a formal to neutral tone. While the phrase itself is relatively straightforward, understanding the context in which it is used is crucial for accurate interpretation. Remember, the strength and legitimacy of the authority being claimed are often central to the discussion.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

Assertion of power

Focuses more on the forceful declaration of control.

Exercise of control

Highlights the active implementation of authority.

Declaration of dominance

Emphasizes a position of superiority.

Exertion of influence

Implies a more subtle and indirect application of authority.

Manifestation of leadership

Suggests authority displayed through leading actions.

Assumption of command

Involves taking control, often in a decisive manner.

Imposition of rule

Emphasizes the act of enforcing authority, often strictly.

Presumption of entitlement

Highlights a sense of being inherently deserving of authority.

Enforcement of regulations

Specifically refers to the implementation of established rules.

Wielding of jurisdiction

Highlights the use of legal or formal power.

FAQs

How is "claim of authority" typically used in legal contexts?

In legal contexts, "claim of authority" often refers to the legal basis or justification asserted for exercising power or control. It's used to argue whether an action or decision is within the bounds of legal or constitutional rights.

What are some alternatives to "claim of authority" that sound less formal?

For less formal alternatives, consider phrases like "assertion of power", "declaration of dominance", or even simply stating that someone "took control" or "took charge", depending on the specific situation.

How can I use "claim of authority" in a sentence?

You might say, "The president's "claim of authority" to deploy troops without congressional approval was met with strong opposition." or "The expert's "claim of authority" on the subject was based on years of research."

What is the difference between "claim of authority" and "abuse of authority"?

"Claim of authority" refers to the assertion of a right or power to act, while "abuse of authority" refers to the misuse or excessive use of that power, often in an unethical or illegal manner.