general authority

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "general authority" is correct and usable in written English. You can use it in contexts where you refer to a broad or overarching power or influence granted to an individual or organization. For example, "The committee operates under the general authority of the board." Alternative expressions include "overall authority," "broad authority," and "universal authority."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

35 human-written examples

One would give the attorney general authority to enforce campaign finance laws.

The New York Times

In North America a U.S.-Canadian International Joint Commission has functioned since 1909 with general authority over the boundary waters.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Penal and correctional institutions operated by the state are administered under the general authority of the Department of Public Safety and Corrections.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Under the court's recent precedents, Congress lacks the ability to abrogate the states' constitutional immunity from lawsuits under the general authority to regulate interstate commerce.

The New York Times

As a result, it is difficult for them to develop the profile, range and general "authority" that white or male journalists do.

The Guardian - Opinion

The original draft allowed the secretary general authority only over contracts directly related to relief aid -- food, water purification devices and the like.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

22 human-written examples

It also houses offices for other general authorities and their personal staff.

Wikipedia

In October 1946, Kimball and several other general authorities toured the Navajo Nation in an effort to improve relations between the LDS Church and the Navajo people.

Wikipedia

He also clarified that it applies to "full-time general authorities, general auxiliary leaders (such as presidents of the church Relief Society, Primary or Young Women organizations), mission presidents and temple presidents.

Huffington Post

In referring to activities at the General Conference of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints last weekend, the caption read in part, "MemberSaintshe Quorum of the Twelast weekends and other general authorities raise their hands in a sustaining vote....".

Huffington Post

On June 1 , 1978 following the monthly meeting of general authorities in the Salt Lake Temple, Kimball asked his counselors and the ten members of Quorum of the Twelve Apostles then present to remain behind for a special meeting.

Wikipedia

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "general authority", ensure the context clearly defines the scope and limitations of that authority to avoid ambiguity.

Common error

Avoid implying unlimited power when describing "general authority". Always acknowledge any existing constraints or specific exceptions to that authority.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "general authority" functions as a noun phrase, typically acting as the subject or object in a sentence. It denotes a broad or overarching power, right, or capacity to govern or control something. Ludwig AI confirms its proper usage across various contexts.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Encyclopedias

25%

Science

15%

Less common in

Wiki

10%

Formal & Business

5%

Social Media

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "general authority" is a commonly used noun phrase that signifies a broad or overarching power. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and widespread use across diverse contexts such as news, encyclopedias, and legal documents. When employing this phrase, it's crucial to define the scope and limitations to avoid ambiguity. Be mindful to not overstate this scope and the best practice is to clearly define parameters when writing. Related phrases include "broad jurisdiction", "overall mandate", and "sweeping powers". "General authority" is neutral in register and serves to define the jurisdiction of an individual, group or institution.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

broad jurisdiction

Implies a wide scope of legal or administrative control.

overall mandate

Focuses on the comprehensive nature of the assigned duties or powers.

sweeping powers

Emphasizes the extensive and unrestricted nature of the authority.

comprehensive authorization

Highlights the completeness and thoroughness of the approval granted.

extensive dominion

Conveys a sense of widespread control or rule over something.

blanket approval

Suggests an all-encompassing permission without specific limitations.

unlimited power

Indicates authority without any constraints or restrictions.

discretionary control

Implies the freedom to make decisions based on one's own judgment.

general competence

Refers to the broad ability and legal capacity to deal with a matter.

wide-ranging authority

Describes an extensive scope of control and influence.

FAQs

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

You can use "general authority" to describe someone or an organization that has broad powers or control. For example: "The attorney general has "general authority" to enforce campaign finance laws."

What's the difference between "general authority" and "specific authority"?

"General authority" refers to a broad, overarching power, while "specific authority" refers to power that is limited to particular tasks or situations. It is important to differentiate between an agency's "general authority" to interpret a law and its specific authority to interpret a particular provision of the law.

What are some alternatives to "general authority"?

Depending on the context, you can use alternatives like "overall mandate", "broad jurisdiction", or "sweeping powers".

In what contexts is "general authority" typically used?

"General authority" is commonly used in legal, governmental, and organizational contexts to describe the extent of someone's power or jurisdiction. For example, it can be used in relation to "attorney general" power or the role of "general authorities" in religious organizations.