has authority over

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "has authority over" is correct and commonly used in written English.
It means that someone or something has the power or right to control or make decisions for another person or group. Example: The board of directors has authority over all major decisions for the company. In this sentence, the phrase "has authority over" is used to indicate that the board of directors has the power to make decisions for the company. Another example: The judge has authority over the court proceedings. Here, the phrase "has authority over" is used to show that the judge has the power to control and make decisions during the court proceedings.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

58 human-written examples

(It now has authority over only some firms).

The New York Times

In that role, he has authority over Mueller's investigation.

The Washington Post

In Israel, the Orthodox rabbinate has authority over conversions.

The New York Times

Well, the U.S. court has authority over Sea Shepherd U.S.A., and it has authority over me, as a U.S. citizen, but it doesn't have authority over the ships.

The New Yorker

The Graduate Advisor for the archaeology program has authority over the implementation of all these requirements.

University of California, Berkeley

The Head Graduate Advisor has authority over the implementation of requirements for these students.

University of California, Berkeley

any Council which has authority over any fishery specified in such application.

Cornell University

The Supreme Leader has authority over the bonyads and the Revolutionary Guards.

The New Yorker

An ambassador, however, has authority over which Americans are allowed to stay in a foreign country.

The New Yorker

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

2 human-written examples

"He didn't have authority over anyone.

The New York Times

Did they have authority over the guards?

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "has authority over", clearly define the scope and limitations of that authority to avoid ambiguity. Be specific about what aspects or entities are subject to that authority.

Common error

Avoid assuming that "has authority over" implies absolute control in all situations. Legal, ethical, and practical constraints often limit the extent of control.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "has authority over" functions as a predicate in a sentence, indicating that the subject possesses the power or right to control, govern, or make decisions regarding the object. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and common usage.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

56%

Academia

22%

Science

22%

Less common in

Wiki

1%

Formal & Business

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "has authority over" is a grammatically sound and frequently used expression that defines hierarchical control and responsibility. As Ludwig AI confirms, its usage is widespread across various contexts, particularly in news, academic and scientific domains. Best practices encourage clearly defining the scope of authority, while common errors involve overstating its reach. Related phrases like "has control over" and "is in charge of" offer nuanced alternatives. Its role to establish hierarchies and responsibilities is clear, making it suitable for neutral to professional settings.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

has control over

Emphasizes the element of control, suggesting the ability to manage or direct something.

is in charge of

Focuses on responsibility and direct management of a task or entity.

is responsible for

Highlights accountability for outcomes or actions related to a specific area.

exercises jurisdiction over

Implies a legal or official right to apply laws and judgements within a specific territory or area.

wields power over

Suggests the use of influence or command, often in a more forceful or impactful manner.

governs

Implies ruling or directing with official capacity, often related to administration and oversight.

supervises

Highlights the act of overseeing and directing tasks or people, ensuring proper execution.

manages

Focuses on the practical handling and coordination of resources or operations.

presides over

Indicates holding a position of leadership or chairing an activity or organization.

is empowered to

Emphasizes the granting of power or authority to perform specific actions or make decisions.

FAQs

How to use "has authority over" in a sentence?

Use "has authority over" to indicate that someone or something has the power or right to control or make decisions for another person or group. For example: "The CEO "has authority over" all company operations".

What can I say instead of "has authority over"?

You can use alternatives like "is in charge of", "is responsible for", or "has control over" depending on the context.

Which is correct, "has authority over" or "has authority on"?

"Has authority over" is correct when indicating control or jurisdiction. "Has authority on" is generally incorrect; instead, use "is an authority on" to indicate expertise.

What's the difference between "has authority over" and "has influence over"?

"Has authority over" implies a formal or legal right to control, whereas "has influence over" suggests the ability to affect decisions or actions without direct control.