given the authority over

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "given the authority over" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing the delegation or assignment of power or control to someone regarding a specific matter or group. Example: "The committee has been given the authority over the budget decisions for the upcoming fiscal year."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

2 human-written examples

"It's hard for many folks to understand that when they have been given the authority over someone else's money, it isn't their money to spend as they wish".

The New York Times

Abu Bakr, the first Muslim caliph (i.e., the first successor to the prophet Mohammed and leader of the Islamic faith), said in his inaugural speech, in the seventh century, "I have been given the authority over you, and I am not the best of you.

Forbes

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

58 human-written examples

(Rabbi) MEL GLAZER Colorado Springs, Oct. 23, 2012 The Writer Responds Mr. Puner and Mr. Denham support marriage equality but think that giving churches the authority over "marriage" is too great a concession.

The New York Times

The Senate then granted Octavian a unique grade of Proconsular command power (imperium) which gave him the authority over all of Rome's military governors, and thus, over the entire Roman army.

Wikipedia

The serial child killer gave the authorities no help over the years with the Cardy murder or with other unsolved cases around the UK.

Independent

Under a 2009 law giving the F.D.A. authority over tobacco products, the agency cannot ban nicotine, but can require that it be reduced to extremely low levels if that is proved to benefit public health.

The New York Times - Health

Give the laity authority over bishops?

The Washington Post

That means giving the E.C.B. authority over all banks, not just the big ones.

The New York Times

In law, he established the principle of judicial review, giving the courts authority over the political branch.

The Economist

In 2009, the Tobacco Control Act gave the agency authority over cigarettes and smokeless tobacco.

The Washington Post

That would give the agency authority over the seven largest servicers, which handle nearly 50 million loans.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "given the authority over", ensure that the context clearly establishes the source of the authority and the specific area or domain over which it extends. This prevents ambiguity and ensures clarity for the reader.

Common error

Avoid assuming that "given the authority over" implies absolute or unlimited power. Always clarify the boundaries and limitations of the authority to prevent overreach or misinterpretation.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "given the authority over" functions primarily as a passive construction indicating that someone or something has been granted power or control over a specific domain. Ludwig's AI confirms its usability, highlighting its role in describing delegated powers.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

67%

Wiki

33%

Formal & Business

0%

Less common in

Academia

0%

Science

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "given the authority over" is a grammatically sound expression used to indicate the delegation of power or control. As Ludwig AI confirms, it’s a usable phrase found mostly in news and media contexts. While its frequency is rare, understanding its usage, alternatives, and potential errors can improve clarity in writing. It's important to define the scope and limitations of the authority to avoid ambiguity and ensure correct interpretation.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

granted control over

Focuses on the aspect of control being transferred, rather than authority specifically.

bestowed power upon

Emphasizes the act of granting power as a gift or honor.

delegated authority to

Highlights the act of entrusting authority, often within a hierarchical structure.

vested with jurisdiction

Implies a legal or formal empowerment.

empowered to oversee

Focuses on the enablement to supervise or manage.

entrusted with command

Highlights the aspect of being trusted with a leadership role.

assigned responsibility for

Emphasizes the duty or obligation to handle something.

put in charge of

A more informal way of saying someone has been given control.

given dominion over

Implies supreme authority or control, often in a broad or absolute sense.

licensed to govern

Highlights the formal permission or legal authorization to rule.

FAQs

How can I rephrase "given the authority over" to sound more formal?

For a more formal tone, consider using phrases like "vested with jurisdiction", "delegated authority to", or "empowered to oversee".

What's a less formal alternative to "given the authority over"?

Less formal options include "put in charge of" or simply "in control of" depending on the context.

Is it correct to say "given authority over to"?

While grammatically understandable, "given authority over to" can sound redundant. It's generally better to use "given the authority over" or "delegated authority to" for clearer and more concise writing.

How does "given the authority over" differ from "having influence over"?

"Given the authority over" implies a formal grant of power or control, while "having influence over" suggests a more subtle and persuasive ability to affect something or someone without necessarily holding official power. Authority is a right; influence is an ability.