impose authority on

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "impose authority on" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing the act of exerting control or influence over someone or something. Example: "The manager decided to impose authority on the team to ensure that deadlines were met."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

Encyclopedias

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

1 human-written examples

More generally, on views that conceive of morality as at least partly originating from rational agents actively binding, obligating, or imposing authority on one another, it is easy to see why those with sufficient cognitive capacity to impose authority on others would have FMS that others are bound to respect.

SEP

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

59 human-written examples

Appointed governor to Richard II in February 1381, Warwick joined the nobles who sought to impose their authority on the king and was one of the lords appellant in 1388.

Encyclopedia Britannica

But Libya's new leadership was already struggling to impose its authority on the country.

The Guardian

He contends that the democratic state must impose its authority on the far-flung reaches of a country twice the size of France and of impossible geography.

The Economist

"How much will he remain in the shadows or how much does he want to impose his authority on the new government — we don't know".

The New York Times

Any prime minister who wants to impose his authority on the militias will need broad national support for his government, but such support will be hard to obtain.

The New York Times

She has battled to impose her authority on the Socialist Party heavyweights, trying first to conduct the campaign without them, and now fighting to keep them on board.Mr Bayrou has also taken advantage of Mr Sarkozy's right-wing positioning.

The Economist

Bravo Badawi Two nations divided In the dark The wild west The verdict ReprintsMr Khan has been a thorn in the flesh of Mr Karzai's government, which has tried to impose its authority on unruly warlords.

The Economist

Several radical Shias, reckoning that their leaders might be more able to impose their authority on the country if the Americans and their allies were to leave forthwith, blamed the Americans.

The Economist

Libya's new rulers have struggled to impose their authority on numerous armed groups who helped oust Col. Muammar el-Qaddafi last year but have yet to lay down their arms.

The New York Times

As a result of his policies, ʿUthmān was opposed by the army, and he was often dominated by his relatives, unlike ʿUmar, who had been strong enough to impose his authority on the governors, whatever their clan or tribe.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "impose authority on" when you want to emphasize the act of actively exerting control or influence, especially in situations where such authority is being challenged or needs to be reinforced.

Common error

Avoid using "impose authority on" in contexts where a softer, more collaborative approach might be more appropriate. Overusing this phrase can create a perception of being overly authoritarian.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "impose authority on" functions as a verb phrase. It describes the action of asserting or enforcing one's power, control, or influence over someone or something. As indicated by Ludwig AI, this phrase is correct and usable in written English.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

33%

Encyclopedias

33%

Science

33%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "impose authority on" is a grammatically correct expression used to describe the act of exerting control or influence, especially when such authority is being challenged or needs reinforcement. Ludwig AI confirms its validity. While its frequency is rare, the phrase appears in neutral to formal contexts, including news, encyclopedias, and scientific publications. Related phrases include "exert control over" and "assert authority over". When using this phrase, consider the potential connotations of being overly authoritarian and ensure it aligns with the intended tone and context.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

Assert authority over

More direct and forceful than simply 'impose'.

Exert control over

Focuses on the act of controlling without necessarily implying formal authority.

Exercise power over

Emphasizes the use of power to direct or influence someone.

Establish dominance over

Highlights the act of gaining a superior position.

Enforce control over

Implies making sure control is maintained and obeyed.

Wield influence over

Suggests a more subtle and indirect control.

Take command of

Emphasizes the act of assuming a leadership role.

Lay down the law for

An idiomatic expression implying strict rule-setting.

Govern

A more general term for managing and controlling.

Dictate to

Implies an autocratic and forceful manner of control.

FAQs

How can I use "impose authority on" in a sentence?

You can use "impose authority on" to describe a situation where someone is establishing or enforcing their control, such as "The new manager needed to "impose authority on" the team to ensure deadlines were met."

What are some alternatives to "impose authority on"?

Alternatives include "exert control over", "exercise power over", or "assert authority over", each carrying slightly different connotations.

When is it appropriate to use "impose authority on" versus "exercise leadership"?

"Impose authority on" suggests a more direct and potentially forceful assertion of control, while "exercise leadership" implies guidance and influence. Choose ""impose authority on"" when control is necessary, and "exercise leadership" when guidance is more suitable.

Is "impose authority on" always negative?

Not necessarily. While it can suggest a heavy-handed approach, ""impose authority on"" is sometimes necessary to maintain order or ensure compliance, especially in situations where there is resistance or lack of cooperation.