hold authority

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase “hold authority” is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when describing an individual or group that has power and the right to make decisions. For example, “The mayor and her council hold authority over the city’s budget and policy initiatives.”.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

20 human-written examples

Because they hold authority over students, teachers must be careful not to bully those who hold different views.

The New York Times - Magazine

Where men hold authority, women and girls find it difficult to get information and services, Unicef said.

The New York Times

The conceit is straightforward: the world is turned on its head so that women hold authority and privilege while men are harassed, controlled, and dismissed.

The New Yorker

Since the Ottoman collapse, Sunni Islam has lacked an internationally recognised clerical hierarchy and senior figures generally hold authority within a single country.

The Guardian

This body, which exists only on the web but enjoys the loyalty of real fighters and commanders, aspires to hold authority in Islam's name over the whole north Caucasus, and perhaps beyond; and to wage unlimited war against infidel Russia.

The Economist

Many of his short stories, novellas, and novels are narrated by polymathic men who loathe organized religion, think having children is stupid, and hold authority in contempt ("A decent person is ashamed of being a boss !").

The New Yorker

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

40 human-written examples

I hold authorities fully responsible for any harm inflicted on my daughter," she said.

The Guardian

Today, it is important to identify and develop new strategies to hold authorities accountable for preventable maternal deaths.

Harvard University

The net has obvious appeal to citizens with few means to hold authorities responsible for their actions.

The Guardian

"By doing this, local authorities are siphoning off the primary source of revenue which enables independent local journalism to hold authorities to account on behalf of local people.

The Guardian

We are now launching the Sarah Reed campaign and are seeking to hold authorities to account through a "justice trial" for her.

The Guardian - Opinion

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "hold authority", ensure the context clearly indicates the scope and limits of that authority. Specify what the subject has the right to control or influence.

Common error

Avoid using "hold authority" in situations where the subject's power is limited or informal. Instead, opt for phrases like "exert influence" or "have input" to accurately reflect their role.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "hold authority" functions as a verb phrase + noun construction, where "hold" is the verb indicating possession or exercise and "authority" is the noun representing the power or right to give orders, make decisions, and enforce obedience. Ludwig's examples show it being used to describe individuals or groups who have official or recognized control.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Academia

30%

Wiki

15%

Less common in

Science

5%

Formal & Business

5%

Encyclopedias

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "hold authority" is a grammatically sound and frequently used expression denoting the possession of power or control. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and usability. Analysis of various sources reveals that it is commonly found in News & Media, Academic, and Wiki contexts. When using "hold authority", ensure the context clearly defines the extent of that power. Alternatives such as "wield power" or "exercise control" can offer nuanced substitutes depending on the specific meaning you intend to convey. Overall, understanding its grammatical function, communicative purpose, and register helps writers use "hold authority" effectively and accurately.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

wield power

Focuses on the active exercise of power, suggesting a more direct and forceful application of authority.

exercise control

Emphasizes the act of managing and directing, highlighting the practical implementation of authority.

possess jurisdiction

Specifically refers to the legal right to apply the law or govern in a particular area.

have command

Implies a position of leadership, particularly in a military or hierarchical context.

maintain control

Highlights the continuous effort required to keep authority and prevent it from eroding.

exert influence

Focuses on the ability to affect decisions or actions, often without direct command.

bear responsibility

Emphasizes the accountability that comes with holding a position of authority.

occupy a position of power

Describes the state of being in a role that grants authority, emphasizing the static nature of the position.

have dominion over

Suggests complete control and ownership, often used in a historical or religious context.

be in charge of

A more informal way to describe having authority over a particular area or task.

FAQs

How is "hold authority" used in a sentence?

The phrase "hold authority" indicates possessing power or control. For example: "The board of directors "hold authority" over the company's financial decisions".

What are some alternatives to "hold authority"?

Alternatives include "wield power", "exercise control", or "possess jurisdiction", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it better to say "have authority" or "hold authority"?

Both "have authority" and "hold authority" are grammatically correct, but "hold authority" often implies a more active or formal possession of power, while "have authority" can be more general.

In what contexts is "hold authority" most appropriate?

"Hold authority" is suitable in formal contexts such as legal, political, or organizational settings where the possession of power is clearly defined and recognized.