clear line of authority

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "clear line of authority" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a well-defined hierarchy or structure of command within an organization or system. Example: "In order to improve efficiency, we need to establish a clear line of authority among team members."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

11 human-written examples

"What Europe has lacked is a clear line of authority," Mr. Vives said.

The New York Times

Analysts say the absence of a clear line of authority translated into an absence of urgency and accountability.

The New York Times

But this plan would not give New York's mayor a clear line of authority over schools as in Chicago.

The New York Times

We deal with all of these things and we delineate them with a clear line of authority.

The New York Times

The mayor, who has said the bill needs immediate approval so the school system can have a clear line of authority, was resolute about considering no changes.

The New York Times

Our study suggests that a pivotal issue for improving hand hygiene practice in China is providing infection control departments adequate attention, priority, and influence within the hospital, with a clear line of authority to senior management.

Journal of Hospital Infection

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

49 human-written examples

Several of the bill's authors in Congress agree that although they built in clear lines of authority for the director of national intelligence -- or the D.N.I., as the post is already widely known at the White House and within bureaucratic circles -- success will depend largely on Mr. Bush making it clear over the next several months that the national intelligence director has his support.

The New York Times

Many of the recommendations in the report echoed the need to create clear lines of authority.

The New York Times - Tech

Everyone does multiple jobs, and there are no clear lines of authority.

The New York Times

The militiamen I had run into had no clear lines of authority.

The Guardian - Opinion

With its clear lines of authority, specialized units, and standardized tasks, bureaucracy promotes efficiency at scale.

Harvard Business Review

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When implementing a new organizational structure, ensure a "clear line of authority" is communicated to all members, including roles, responsibilities and reporting protocols.

Common error

Avoid ambiguity by explicitly outlining the roles, responsibilities and decision-making powers associated with each position. Without clearly defined roles, the "clear line of authority" can become blurred, leading to inefficiencies and conflicts.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "clear line of authority" functions as a noun phrase, often acting as a subject or object in a sentence. It denotes a well-defined hierarchy or structure of command, control, and accountability. Ludwig AI confirms its usability in written English.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

44%

Academia

22%

Science

20%

Less common in

Formal & Business

10%

Encyclopedias

2%

Wiki

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "clear line of authority" is a noun phrase that denotes a well-defined structure of command and accountability. As confirmed by Ludwig AI, it's grammatically correct and useful in written English. While primarily used in news, academic, and scientific contexts, it maintains a neutral to professional register. Establishing a "clear line of authority" is critical for organizational efficiency and the avoidance of confusion. When writing, ensure you explicitly define roles and responsibilities, and for variety, consider alternatives like "defined chain of command" or "unambiguous leadership structure".

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

defined chain of command

Emphasizes the sequential aspect of authority, from top to bottom.

unambiguous leadership structure

Focuses on the clarity of the organizational structure.

distinct command hierarchy

Highlights the ranking and order within the leadership.

well-defined reporting structure

Stresses the clarity in how individuals report within an organization.

explicit delegation of power

Focuses on the clear transfer of authority.

transparent accountability system

Emphasizes the visibility and clarity of the accountability process.

established leadership protocol

Highlights the presence of a set of formal rules to follow.

hierarchical control system

Focuses on the system of control and its hierarchical nature.

structured management framework

Emphasizes the organization and structure of management.

formalized authority gradient

Highlights the gradual and ordered increase of authority.

FAQs

How can I illustrate the need for a "clear line of authority" in a project proposal?

Emphasize the potential for confusion, delays and duplicated efforts if roles and responsibilities are not distinctly defined from the outset. A well-defined hierarchy ensures efficient decision-making and accountability.

What are the benefits of establishing a "clear line of authority" in a team?

It promotes accountability, reduces confusion, streamlines decision-making processes, and fosters a more efficient and productive work environment.

How does a "clear line of authority" differ from micromanagement?

A "clear line of authority" establishes who is responsible for what and to whom they report, while micromanagement involves excessive control and intervention in the day-to-day tasks of subordinates. Micromanagement undermines autonomy, while a "clear line of authority" provides structure and guidance.

What happens if a company doesn't have a "clear line of authority"?

Organizations lacking a "clear line of authority" often experience confusion, inefficiency, duplicated effort, lack of accountability, and difficulty in decision-making. This can lead to decreased productivity, employee frustration and ultimately, organizational failure.