excellent authority

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "excellent authority" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe someone or something that is highly credible or knowledgeable in a particular field or subject. Example: "The research was conducted under the guidance of an excellent authority in environmental science."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Books

General Discussion

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

7 human-written examples

Anonymous I have it on excellent authority (a younger nephew) that "the wheels on the bus go round and round".

The New York Times

I have it on excellent authority that the obligations of the mother of the groom are threefold: Show up, shut up and wear beige.

The New York Times

Speak the truth without impudence, or I have it on excellent authority (although not the Grimms') that your nose will grow longer and you will come to a most uncomfortable end.

The New York Times

We regret to have to report, on excellent authority, that subsequent to Dec. 12, the following have, probably among many others, been detained: Jo Beall, Adonyha Dhthwathe... John James, Bill Jardine... William Thomas, Molefe Tsele and Lechesa Tsenoli.

The New Yorker

Whitney, Lincoln's friend from Illinois and a frequent visitor to the White House, recounted "on excellent authority" that a distinguished visitor left the White House disgusted after being interrupted by "a silly, grotesque, and inapplicable anecdote".

The New York Times

I have it on excellent authority that Princes William and Harry are both perfectly nice types, with the standard range of character pluses and minuses: William is not the industrious, untroubled one, and Harry is not the messed-up sex fiend on speed.

The Guardian - Books

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

52 human-written examples

Even after government cuts, we still have many excellent local authority swimming pools; there's a fashion for free swimming and sea swimming.

The Guardian - Opinion

It is rendering itself increasingly irrelevent – except in those many cities where it runs excellent local authorities, whose autonomous leaders detach themselves from the central party.

The Guardian - Opinion

She told BBC Good Morning Wales: "We do have some excellent local authorities, but this has cast a shadow now over... our chief executives, who do work within their remit in an honest and transparent manner.

BBC

Here and throughout the evening the musicians — members of the ensemble Le Train Bleu — were excellent, conducted with precise authority by Ransom Wilson.

The New York Times - Arts

Lansley said that he was "delighted" to announce Grant as his preferred chair, adding that he has "distinction and authority" and excellent leadership skills.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "excellent authority", ensure the source truly possesses deep knowledge and credibility in the subject matter. Back up the claim with specifics about their credentials or experience.

Common error

Avoid using "excellent authority" lightly. Overusing it can diminish its impact. Reserve it for sources with genuinely exceptional expertise and recognized standing.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "excellent authority" functions as a noun phrase where the adjective "excellent" modifies the noun "authority". It is used to describe someone or something as a highly credible or knowledgeable source of information, as exemplified by Ludwig's examples.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

57%

Books

29%

Science

14%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "excellent authority" is a phrase used to highlight the high credibility and expertise of a source. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is grammatically correct and most commonly found in news, books, and science-related contexts. While not extremely frequent, the phrase is a powerful way to emphasize the reliability of information, making it useful in persuasive writing and discussions. Remember to use it judiciously, reserving it for sources that truly warrant such a strong endorsement. Consider alternatives such as "credible source" or "reputable expert" depending on the specific nuance you wish to convey.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

recognized authority

Highlights the acknowledged expertise of the individual.

authoritative figure

Emphasizes the influence, command, and reliability of the source.

credible source

Focuses on the trustworthiness of the source rather than their high level of expertise.

reputable expert

Highlights the expert status of the source and their good reputation.

reliable source

Highlights the source's dependability and accuracy.

esteemed figure

Emphasizes the high regard in which the person is held.

leading expert

Stresses the person's position at the forefront of their field.

notable expert

Emphasizes the prominence and importance of the expert.

expert of high standing

Indicates a professional whose opinions and work are highly valued.

respected voice

Focuses on influence and credibility within a specific area.

FAQs

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

You can use "excellent authority" to describe a highly credible source of information. For example, "I have it on "excellent authority" that the project will be completed on time."

What is a good alternative to "excellent authority"?

Alternatives to "excellent authority" include "credible source", "reputable expert", or "recognized authority". The best choice depends on the specific context.

Is it better to say "excellent authority" or "good authority"?

"Excellent authority" emphasizes a higher degree of credibility and expertise compared to "good authority". Use "excellent" when you want to highlight the exceptional qualifications of the source.

What does it mean to have something on "excellent authority"?

To have something on "excellent authority" means you've received information from a source considered highly reliable and knowledgeable. It suggests a strong basis for believing the information to be accurate.