exert authority

USAGE SUMMARY

"exert authority" is a perfectly correct and usable phrase in written English.
For example, you might use it to describe the actions of a manager or leader: "The new project manager was keen to exert authority over her team."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

43 human-written examples

Women of Ms. Huston's generation in Hollywood do not take opportunities to exert authority for granted.

The New York Times

There are, of course, different ways for politics to exert authority over science.

The Washington Post

But after the boys tear open their gifts, they begin fighting, and Mr. Graham struggles to exert authority.

The New York Times

Guardiola has not been slow to show decisiveness and exert authority, banishing Joe Hart to Italy and leaving Yaya Touré out of his Champions League squad.

The Guardian - Sport

The governor of the Bank of England had almost papal powers and, it was said, could exert authority by arching an eyebrow.

The Guardian

Today, with the world economy on the brink of a major calamity, it is again time for the world's politicians to exert authority over the international financial system.

The New Yorker

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

17 human-written examples

The Taliban's inner shura, or governing council, exerts authority over lower-level Taliban fighters.

The New York Times

Charles was not effective in exerting authority, especially over the Jesuits.

Britannica

That could split the country or provoke intervention by the army.The government has neither exerted authority nor achieved compromise.

The Economist

And as China seeks to strengthen its power, it realizes it may have more success exerting authority in the region with Japan as less of a rival.

The New York Times

Bishops and nobles often exerted authority over wealthy abbeys; the abbeys thus petitioned Sylvester to free them from all exterior control except that of the papacy.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "exert authority", ensure the context clearly indicates the source and legitimacy of the authority being exercised. Specify the scope and limits of the authority to avoid ambiguity.

Common error

Avoid assuming that "exerting authority" automatically implies positive outcomes. Acknowledge that authority can be used effectively or ineffectively, and ensure your writing reflects awareness of potential consequences.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "exert authority" functions primarily as a verb phrase describing the act of actively exercising control or power. It indicates a deliberate effort to enforce or demonstrate one's authority in a particular situation. As Ludwig indicates, this is a perfectly valid English phrase.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

63%

Encyclopedias

13%

Science

11%

Less common in

Wiki

8%

Formal & Business

5%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "exert authority" is a grammatically sound and frequently used phrase to describe the act of actively exercising control or power. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's a valid English phrase. Predominantly found in News & Media, Encyclopedias, and Science contexts, the phrase often signifies actions taken by leaders or institutions to manage situations or enforce regulations. While alternatives such as "wield power" or "exercise control" exist, the specific choice depends on the desired nuance. When employing "exert authority", it's crucial to clearly define the scope and legitimacy of the authority in question to prevent ambiguity.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

exert influence

Similar to "exert authority", but focuses on influence rather than direct control.

exert command

Directs the action towards giving orders and expecting obedience.

exercise control

Highlights the act of maintaining regulation or command over someone or something.

establish control

Highlights the process of setting up and securing control over something.

assert influence

Emphasizes the act of making one's influence felt or recognized, often in a persuasive way.

wield power

Focuses on the possession and skillful use of power, implying a greater degree of influence.

display power

Focuses on showing or making evident one's power or strength.

enforce dominance

Suggests a more aggressive or forceful assertion of superiority or control.

take command

Implies assuming a position of leadership and responsibility.

demonstrate leadership

Shifts the focus to showing leadership qualities and skills.

FAQs

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

You can use "exert authority" to describe actions taken to enforce control or influence, such as, "The manager needed to "exert authority" to resolve the conflict among team members".

What are some alternatives to "exert authority"?

Alternatives include phrases like "wield power", "exercise control", or "assert influence", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it better to say "exert authority" or "exercise authority"?

Both "exert authority" and "exercise authority" are grammatically correct and have similar meanings. The choice often depends on stylistic preference or the specific context of the sentence.

In what contexts is "exert authority" commonly used?

"Exert authority" is frequently used in contexts related to leadership, governance, and management, particularly when discussing the actions of individuals or institutions in positions of power.