lawful authority

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "lawful authority" is correct and usable in written English. You can use it in contexts where you refer to someone or something that has the legal right or power to act. An example is: "The officer acted under lawful authority to enforce the regulations." Alternative expressions include "legal authority" and "legitimate authority."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Within minutes of the decision, the Department of Justice attacked the ruling and promised to "vindicate the president's lawful authority" to enforce the law.

Vice

The 2004 law makes it a crime to use knowingly, "without lawful authority, a means of identification of another person" in connection with a variety of other offenses.

The New York Times

Section 2(1) of the Interpretation Act defines "subsidiary legislation" as meaning "any order in council, proclamation, rule, regulation, order, notification, by-law or other instrument made under any Act, Ordinance or other lawful authority and having legislative effect".

Wikipedia

"PIPEDA prohibits disclosure of the information unless the requirements of the law enforcement provisions are met, including that the government institution discloses a lawful authority to obtain, not simply to ask for the information," Cromwell wrote.

Vice

"You have an individual who appears to be a law enforcement officer entering someone's vehicle without permission and seemingly without any lawful authority," Barocas told the online news site.

Huffington Post

We wouldn't have the lawful authority to do that.

The Guardian

This makes it a criminal offence to wilfully obstruct free passage along a highway, without lawful authority or excuse.

The Guardian

Mr. Safire also suggests that "some lawful authority" should issue a subpoena for documents stored by BNP Paribas.

The New York Times

Again it is a defence to show that you had lawful authority to be carrying the item.

The Guardian - Opinion

"All of this is being done under a cloak of secrecy without any public debate or clear lawful authority.

The Guardian

The Guardian's Style guide entry on 'execution' states: the carrying out of a death sentence by lawful authority, so a terrorist, for example, does not "execute" someone.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When discussing actions taken by officials or organizations, specify the exact source or basis of their "lawful authority" to enhance clarity and credibility. For example, cite the specific statute or regulation that grants the authority.

Common error

Avoid using "lawful authority" as a vague justification for actions. Always provide concrete details about the legal basis for the authority being cited to avoid misunderstandings and potential challenges.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "lawful authority" functions primarily as a noun phrase, often serving as the object of a verb or the subject of a clause. It designates the legitimate and legally recognized power or right to perform specific actions. Ludwig AI confirms this usage through numerous examples.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

70%

Wiki

15%

Formal & Business

5%

Less common in

Science

3%

Encyclopedias

2%

Reference

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "lawful authority" is a frequently used noun phrase that signifies the legitimate and legally recognized power to act. Ludwig AI analysis indicates the phrase is grammatically sound and commonly appears in news, legal documents, and formal discussions. While alternatives like "legal authority" and "legitimate authority" exist, it's crucial to use "lawful authority" with specific legal references to avoid vagueness. Understanding its function and usage patterns is key to employing it effectively in writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

legal authority

Direct synonym, referring to authority granted by law.

legitimate authority

Focuses on the recognized or accepted right to exercise power.

rightful authority

Emphasizes the justice and moral basis of the authority.

statutory authority

Specifically refers to authority derived from statutes or laws.

official authorization

Highlights the formal approval or permission granted.

due authorization

Implies that proper procedures were followed in granting the authority.

proper jurisdiction

Emphasizes the legal right to apply the law.

warranted power

Highlights that power is justified.

decreed power

Describes power coming from an official order.

sanctioned right

Implies that the right has received official approval or permission.

FAQs

What is another way to say "lawful authority"?

You can use alternatives like "legal authority", "legitimate authority", or "rightful authority" depending on the context.

How is "lawful authority" used in legal contexts?

"Lawful authority" is often used to describe the legitimate power of an individual or institution to act, make decisions, or enforce rules within a legal framework. It is key for justifying actions in accordance with the law.

What does it mean to act without "lawful authority"?

Acting without "lawful authority" means performing an action for which one does not have the legal right or permission. This can lead to legal consequences, as the action may be considered illegitimate or illegal.

Is there a difference between "legal authority" and "lawful authority"?

While "legal authority" and "lawful authority" are often used interchangeably, "lawful authority" can sometimes imply a stronger sense of legitimacy and moral rightness, while "legal authority" more directly refers to adherence to established laws.