establishing authority

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "establishing authority" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used in contexts where someone is trying to assert their power, influence, or credibility in a particular situation or field. Example: "The speaker focused on establishing authority during the presentation to gain the audience's trust and respect."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

10 human-written examples

He possessed what he himself ascribed to Yeats, "the gift of establishing authority within a culture".

The Guardian - Books

Beyond raising her own profile, establishing authority and addressing questions of corruption, she and Mr. Sullivan must find a way to work together.

The New York Times

As Europe's Christian rulers pushed back at Muslim control of the Mediterranean, the Norman king of Sicily, Roger II, captured Tripoli and, in 1148, Mahdia, establishing authority over the coast.

The New York Times

Meanwhile, the status of the small Serb minority remained unsettled, and the government in Pristina continued to face difficulty in establishing authority over the Serb-dominated areas north of the Ibër (Ibar) River.

Encyclopedia Britannica

As soon as the agreement was initialled in Paris, the Communists began moving in quickly into new hamlets and establishing authority by raising Vietcong flags & setting up new revolutionary committees before representatives of any of the peace-keeping commission could arrive.

The New Yorker

When it comes down to it, establishing authority is part of building trust.

Huffington Post

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

50 human-written examples

We understand you must establish authority".

The New York Times

The trick that Orpheus has pulled off is to establish authority without establishing an authority figure.

The New Yorker

His antagonism towards religion, governments and indeed any established authority was clear.

The Guardian - Music

Back to article (3) Ethos: attempt to establish authority or connection with the audience.

The Guardian - Film

The neighborhood was overwhelmingly black, but the police force was overwhelmingly white, and it struggled to establish authority.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When writing about "establishing authority", consider the specific context and the means by which authority is being established. Be precise about whether it's through expertise, force, or legitimacy.

Common error

Avoid exaggerating the extent or legitimacy of the authority being established. Ensure claims are supported by evidence and context.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "establishing authority" functions as a noun phrase, where "establishing" acts as a gerund modifying the noun "authority". This phrase generally describes the act or process of gaining or creating authority. Ludwig AI confirms this usage with several examples showcasing its application in different domains.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Science

30%

Encyclopedias

10%

Less common in

Wiki

10%

Formal & Business

5%

Academia

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "establishing authority" functions as a noun phrase describing the process of gaining power or credibility. Ludwig AI confirms it is grammatically correct and usable across various contexts, although it is more common in news, science, and encyclopedic writing. Related phrases include "asserting dominance" and "building credibility", each with nuances in meaning. When using the phrase, consider the specific context and ensure claims are supported by evidence. While generally neutral to formal, its use in academic or business settings lends a professional tone.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

exerting control

Highlights the act of actively using power to direct or manage something.

asserting dominance

This phrase implies a more forceful and potentially aggressive approach to gaining control.

gaining influence

Focuses on building persuasive power rather than direct control.

consolidating control

Suggests strengthening and securing existing power.

building credibility

Emphasizes earning trust and respect, often through expertise or reliability.

affirming power

Focuses on validating or reinforcing existing authority.

taking charge

Implies stepping into a leadership role and assuming responsibility.

winning respect

Highlights gaining admiration and deference through actions or qualities.

assuming command

Suggests a formal or hierarchical leadership position.

laying claim

Highlights the act of asserting a right or entitlement.

FAQs

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

You can use "establishing authority" to describe the process of gaining power, credibility, or control in a particular situation. For example: "The general focused on establishing authority over the newly captured territory."

What are some alternatives to "establishing authority"?

Alternatives include "asserting dominance", "gaining influence", or "building credibility", depending on the specific context.

Is it better to say "establishing authority" or "establish authority"?

"Establishing authority" (gerund form) emphasizes the process, while "establish authority" (infinitive form) focuses on the action. The choice depends on the sentence structure and intended emphasis.

How does "establishing authority" differ from "maintaining authority"?

"Establishing authority" refers to the initial act of gaining power or control, while "maintaining authority" refers to the ongoing effort to preserve that power or control.