foremost authority

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "foremost authority" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to refer to someone or something that is considered the most important or leading expert in a particular field or subject. Example: "Dr. Smith is regarded as the foremost authority on climate change research."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

44 human-written examples

Foremost authority: Donald Trump.

The Washington Post

Qualified foremost authority: Donald Trump.

The Washington Post

Foremost authority among politicians: Donald Trump.

The Washington Post

Qualified foremost authority: Agriculture Secretary Sonny Perdue.

The Washington Post

Bill was also at one time perhaps the nation's foremost authority on construction of correctional facilities.

The New York Times

American economist, the world's foremost authority of his day on business cycles.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

16 human-written examples

Foremost authorities: Police chiefs.

The Washington Post

Foremost authorities: People in Maine.

The Washington Post

One of the foremost authorities: Donald Trump.

The Washington Post

William Dunlap Sargent, was among the foremost authorities on falconry in America.

Cornell University

He is one of the world's foremost authorities on development.

The Economist

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "foremost authority" to indicate an individual or source with widely recognized expertise and influence in a specific domain. For broader topics, consider alternatives like "leading expert".

Common error

While "foremost authority" is acceptable, avoid using it excessively in casual conversations or informal writing. Opt for phrases like "leading expert" or "top expert" for a more appropriate tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "foremost authority" functions as a noun phrase, typically used as a subject complement or appositive. It identifies an individual, organization, or source recognized as the leading expert in a particular field. Ludwig confirms its correct usage.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

35%

Academia

30%

Encyclopedias

10%

Less common in

Science

10%

Formal & Business

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "foremost authority" is a noun phrase used to identify a leading expert or source in a specific field. Ludwig's analysis indicates that the phrase is grammatically correct and frequently used in academic, scientific, and news contexts. When using this expression, remember it conveys a high degree of expertise and influence. Alternatives such as "leading expert" or "top authority" may be suitable for more informal settings. As confirmed by Ludwig, the phrase is a valuable asset for precise and authoritative communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

leading expert

Focuses on expertise rather than official power.

chief authority

Emphasizes the highest rank or position of authority.

principal expert

Highlights the primary or main expertise.

primary expert

Similar to "principal expert", but with a slightly different nuance.

top expert

A more informal way of saying "leading expert".

preeminent authority

Stresses a superior level of prominence and influence.

paramount expert

Underscores the supreme or highest level of expertise.

supreme expert

Implies the highest level of skill and knowledge.

best authority

A more subjective assessment of who is the top expert.

main authority

Highlights the key figure who is most influential.

FAQs

How do you use "foremost authority" in a sentence?

You can use "foremost authority" to describe someone with expertise and influence. For example, "Dr. Jane Goodall is considered the "foremost authority" on chimpanzees".

What's a good alternative to "foremost authority"?

Alternatives include phrases like "leading expert", "top authority", or "principal expert", depending on the context.

Is it better to say "foremost authority" or "leading authority"?

Both "foremost authority" and "leading authority" are correct. "Foremost" implies a higher degree of recognition or influence, while "leading" simply indicates being at the front or top.

What's the difference between "expert" and "foremost authority"?

An "expert" has considerable knowledge or skill in a particular field. A "foremost authority" is an expert who is also widely recognized and highly influential in that field, making them a leading figure.