gain authority

USAGE SUMMARY

"gain authority" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
It means to acquire or obtain power or influence over others. It can be used in a variety of contexts, such as discussing a person's rise to a position of authority or a government's efforts to assert its authority over a certain issue. Example: After years of hard work and dedication, the CEO was able to gain authority in the company and implement necessary changes for its success. Example: The new government has been actively trying to gain authority over the disputed territory, but it has faced resistance from the local community.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

39 human-written examples

Best-selling author, Brian Horn, helps entrepreneurs leverage their knowledge to gain authority status in their industry, then dramatically amplifies their message and shows how to convert the new audience into high paying customers.

Huffington Post

Best-selling author and entrepreneur, Brian Ainsley Horn, helps professionals leverage their knowledge to gain authority status in their industry, then uses "authority marketing" to get them national media exposure.

HuffPost

A Medicare oversight board would gain authority over reimbursement rates.

The New York Times

Individuals gain authority by being able to resolve uncertainty.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Beyond institutional affiliation, critics usually gain authority in three ways.

The New Yorker

In October, having faced down striking workers, he had appeared to gain authority.

The Economist

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

21 human-written examples

A woman arrested this week in her 92-year-old mother's drowning death in Huntington Beach was charged Thursday with murdering her for financial gain, authorities said.

Los Angeles Times

But her voice gains authority with the passage of time.

The New York Times - Books

Eva Perón gained authority by attaching herself to a powerful man.

The New York Times

They have gained authority, become bolder, and more immune to criticism.

The New Yorker

The framers of our Constitution envisioned law gaining authority apart from politics.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "gain authority", clarify the specific area or context in which authority is being acquired to provide more precision.

Common error

Avoid using "gain authority" when the situation involves only temporary or minor influence. Reserve it for situations where a significant and lasting increase in power or control is achieved.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "gain authority" functions as a verb phrase, typically used as the predicate of a sentence. It describes the action of acquiring power, control, or influence.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Science

25%

Encyclopedias

15%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Wiki

5%

Academia

10%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "gain authority" is a grammatically sound and commonly used expression that describes the process of acquiring power or influence. According to Ludwig, it's particularly prevalent in news and media, science, and encyclopedia contexts. While generally neutral in tone, the phrase carries a degree of seriousness due to its subject matter. When using "gain authority", it's best to clarify the specific context of the authority being acquired. Related phrases include "acquire influence" and "build credibility", which offer nuanced variations on the same concept.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

acquire influence

Focuses on obtaining influence rather than direct authority.

develop influence

Focuses on the gradual expansion of one's sphere of influence.

establish dominance

Implies a stronger assertion of power and control.

become influential

Highlights the state of possessing significant influence.

command respect

Emphasizes the ability to inspire deference and obedience.

build credibility

Highlights gaining authority through trustworthiness and expertise.

wield power

Emphasizes the active exercise of authority and control.

earn respect

Focuses on gaining authority through admiration and esteem.

secure recognition

Emphasizes receiving acknowledgment and validation of one's authority.

achieve prominence

Highlights the attainment of a leading position or status.

FAQs

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

You can use "gain authority" to describe the process of acquiring power or influence. For example: "The new manager worked hard to gain authority within the team".

What can I say instead of "gain authority"?

You can use alternatives like "acquire influence", "build credibility", or "earn respect" depending on the context.

Is it better to say "gain authority" or "obtain authority"?

"Gain authority" and "obtain authority" are very similar. "Gain" suggests a gradual process, while "obtain" might imply a more immediate acquisition.

What's the difference between "gain authority" and "increase authority"?

"Gain authority" implies starting from a lower level of influence, while "increase authority" suggests building upon existing power.