final authority

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "final authority" is correct and commonly used in written English.
You can use it whenever you want to refer to something or someone that has the ultimate or conclusive say in a particular matter. It means the highest or ultimate decision-making power. Example: "In our company, the CEO has the final authority on all major business decisions." "The judge serves as the final authority in the courtroom." "My parents are always the final authority in our household."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

56 human-written examples

A CORRONA investigator serves as the lead author, and has final authority on all elements of the published work.

BMC Musculoskeletal Disorders

The Conseil d'État is the final authority in administrative disputes.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Final authority to confer this award rests with the president.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Without a final authority, many disputes can never be resolved.

The New York Times

To be taken seriously, but not the final authority".

The Guardian

For Biblical literalists, Scripture is the final authority.

The New York Times - Science

The confederations were to be unified under a ministry of corporations that would have final authority.

Encyclopedia Britannica

"The early church believed that only the Bible was the final authority.

The New Yorker

"The issue is approval for the final authority," the former high-level intelligence official said.

The New Yorker

The supervirility and unrelenting willpower buried in this sound imply an implacable final authority.

The New York Times - Arts

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

1 human-written examples

Montgomery, 62, runs the team as the chief executive and final authority for the ownership group.

The New York Times - Sports

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "final authority", ensure the context clearly establishes the specific domain or area over which this authority is exercised. For example, specify "final authority on financial matters".

Common error

Avoid implying that someone has "final authority" over everything. Always specify the area of responsibility to prevent misinterpretations and power struggles.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "final authority" functions as a noun phrase that identifies the person, group, or entity possessing the ultimate power to make decisions or enforce rules. This is supported by Ludwig's examples where it indicates decisive control, as shown in numerous contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

35%

Encyclopedias

25%

Science

15%

Less common in

Formal & Business

10%

Wiki

8%

Reference

7%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "final authority" is a commonly used noun phrase that denotes the ultimate decision-making power or control within a given context. Ludwig AI confirms that this phrase is grammatically correct and frequently found in various sources, including news articles, encyclopedias, and scientific publications. When using "final authority", it's best to specify the domain over which the authority is exercised to avoid ambiguity. Alternatives like "ultimate decision maker" or "last word" can be used for nuanced expression. Keep in mind the register is generally neutral to professional, ensuring clarity and appropriate use in your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

ultimate decision maker

Focuses on the person making the final decision rather than the abstract power.

last word

Emphasizes having the concluding say in a matter.

supreme power

Highlights the extent of the power held.

definitive control

Stresses the conclusive nature of the control exercised.

absolute jurisdiction

Implies complete legal power within a specific area.

the buck stops here

Idiomatic expression denoting acceptance of ultimate responsibility.

top of the hierarchy

Highlights placement at the highest level of an organizational structure.

chief arbiter

Focuses on the role of settling disputes conclusively.

end authority

Simplifies the expression, emphasizing the terminal aspect of the authority.

last resort

Highlights that the authority is consulted after other options are exhausted.

FAQs

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

You can use "final authority" to indicate who or what has the ultimate decision-making power in a particular context. For example, "The CEO has the "final authority" on all strategic decisions."

What are some alternatives to "final authority"?

Alternatives include "ultimate decision maker", "last word", or "supreme power", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it redundant to say "ultimate final authority"?

Yes, saying "ultimate final authority" is redundant because both "ultimate" and "final" imply the highest level of authority. It's best to stick with just ""final authority"" or "ultimate authority".

What's the difference between "final authority" and "interim authority"?

"Final authority" refers to the person or entity with the last say on a matter, whereas "interim authority" refers to someone temporarily holding authority, usually until a permanent decision-maker is appointed.