greater authority

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "greater authority" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use this phrase to refer to an increased amount of power or influence that someone or something has. For example, "In order to make sure all of the employees followed the rules of the workplace, the company granted the supervisor greater authority."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

And still Erdoğan craves greater authority.

The Guardian - Opinion

This means finally giving the intelligence director greater authority.

The New York Times

Simons offered them greater authority and high salaries.

The New Yorker

So today, Cameron has internally much greater authority.

The Guardian

Some of us still claim to speak with greater authority.

The New York Times - Books

This effort to gain greater authority contrasts sharply with the approach taken by the president's father.

The New York Times

This means the county is seen as having equal or greater authority than the federal government.

The Guardian

"They believe it undermines their gaining greater and greater authority and responsibility," he said.

The New York Times

Now he has internally greater authority to make the case for Europe".

The Guardian

It added that the chief executive needs "greater authority and accountability".

The New York Times

"The landmarks commission should have greater authority" over the granting of demolition permits, he added.

The New York Times - Arts

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

In legal or formal contexts, use "greater authority" to specifically indicate an expansion of jurisdiction or legal competence, ensuring precise communication.

Common error

Avoid using "greater authority" when you actually mean increased skill or competence. Authority refers to the power to make decisions or command, not necessarily expertise. For example, instead of saying 'The surgeon had greater authority in the operating room because of her experience', say 'The surgeon had greater influence in the operating room because of her experience' if the key factor is her expertise.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "greater authority" functions primarily as a noun phrase, where 'greater' modifies 'authority' to indicate an increased level of power, control, or influence. Ludwig AI confirms its correct usage.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

67%

Formal & Business

17%

Encyclopedias

3%

Less common in

Science

6%

Wiki

0%

Academic sources

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "greater authority" is a grammatically sound and frequently used expression that signifies an increase in power, control, or influence. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's suitable for various formal and neutral contexts, particularly in news reporting, business communications, and encyclopedic entries. When using "greater authority", it's important to ensure that the context aligns with an actual expansion of power rather than simply increased competence. Alternatives such as "enhanced power", "expanded control", and "increased jurisdiction" can provide nuanced variations for specific situations.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

heightened influence

Stresses the greater impact on decisions or actions.

superior influence

Indicates a higher level of sway or persuasive power.

enhanced power

Highlights the increased capacity to act or influence.

more sway

Suggests an increased ability to influence opinions or decisions.

expanded control

Emphasizes the broadened scope of management or command.

increased jurisdiction

Focuses on the legal or official scope of authority.

amplified jurisdiction

Stresses the expanded reach of legal or official authority.

wider powers

Highlights a broader set of rights or abilities.

stronger command

Indicates an increase in the ability to give orders and be obeyed

more command

Implies an increase in the ability to give orders and be obeyed.

FAQs

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

You can use "greater authority" to describe someone or something that has an increased amount of power or control. For example, "The new manager was given "greater authority" over the department."

What are some alternatives to "greater authority"?

Alternatives include "increased jurisdiction", "enhanced power", or "expanded control", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it correct to say "more authority" instead of "greater authority"?

Yes, "more authority" is grammatically correct and often interchangeable with "greater authority". The choice depends on the context and desired emphasis. "Greater authority" might suggest a more significant increase in power.

What is the difference between "greater authority" and "renewed authority"?

"Greater authority" refers to an increase in power or control, whereas "renewed authority" implies a restoration or re-establishment of previously held power. For example, a leader might receive "greater authority" after a promotion, but "renewed authority" after winning an election.