leading authorities

USAGE SUMMARY

"leading authorities" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
You can use it to refer to experts whose work or opinions are respected. For example: "Leading authorities in the field of education have identified certain strategies for improving student achievement."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

50 human-written examples

The show's lead curator will be one of the leading authorities on Goya, Juliet Wilson-Bareau.

The Guardian - Arts

Desmond Morris is a zoologist and author, and one of the world’s leading authorities on human and animal behavior.

Forbes

Best-selling author James Bamford is one of the world's leading authorities on the NSA.

TechCrunch

He is one of Britain's leading authorities on, and sceptics about, cyber-warfare.

The Economist

Gingerich, who is eighty-three, is one of the world's leading authorities on Galileo.

The New Yorker

emeritus of zoology at the U. of Chicago, one of the ration's leading authorities on termites.

The New Yorker

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

10 human-written examples

Creative and inspiring consultant, leading authority and bestselling author on workplace relations.

The New York Times

America's leading authority on van Gogh.

The New Yorker

Thereafter he became the centre-right's leading authority on tax.

The Economist

Emerson's argument was countered by Elliott Joslin, a leading authority on diabetes, and Joslin won out.

The New York Times - Magazine

The leading authority on jihadism in French prisons is an Iranian sociologist in Paris named Farhad Khosrokhavar.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "leading authorities", ensure the context clearly defines the field or area in which these individuals hold authority. This adds credibility and specificity to your statement.

Common error

Avoid using "leading authorities" without specifying their area of expertise. Saying "leading authorities agree" without context makes the statement vague and less convincing. Instead, specify "leading authorities in climate science agree..."

Linguistic Context

The phrase "leading authorities" functions as a noun phrase, often used as a subject or object in a sentence. It serves to identify individuals or groups recognized for their expertise and influence. According to Ludwig, the phrase is grammatically correct and usable.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

42%

Encyclopedias

14%

Science

12%

Less common in

Formal & Business

8%

Wiki

2%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "leading authorities" effectively denotes experts who wield significant influence and recognition in their respective domains. It is grammatically sound and widely accepted, as confirmed by Ludwig, appearing frequently in news, encyclopedias, scientific publications, and formal business contexts. When employing this phrase, it's best practice to specify the relevant field of expertise to avoid ambiguity. Alternatives include "prominent experts", "top experts", and "key figures", each carrying slightly different nuances. Whether aiming for credibility or broad consensus, "leading authorities" serves as a valuable tool in your writing arsenal.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

prominent experts

Focuses more specifically on expertise rather than general authority.

top experts

Emphasizes the high level of expertise, rather than their authority.

key figures

Highlights the importance and influence of individuals.

principal specialists

Stresses the specialization and importance of the individuals.

chief experts

Focuses on a position of leadership in expertise.

major players

Indicates individuals with significant influence or power in a specific domain.

recognized specialists

Focuses on the recognition of their specialization.

esteemed professionals

Highlights the respect and high regard for the individuals' professional standing.

respected voices

Emphasizes the value and influence of their opinions.

influential figures

Highlights the influence of individuals in shaping opinions or decisions.

FAQs

How can I use "leading authorities" in a sentence?

You can use "leading authorities" to support a statement or argument by citing experts in a field. For example, "Leading authorities in economics predict a recession next year".

What is a synonym for "leading authorities"?

Alternatives to "leading authorities" include "prominent experts", "top experts", or "key figures", depending on the nuance you want to convey.

Is it better to name specific authorities rather than use the phrase "leading authorities"?

Naming specific individuals is often more impactful and credible. However, "leading authorities" is useful when referring to a general consensus or when citing a range of experts.

What does it mean to be a "leading authority"?

To be a "leading authority" means to be recognized as one of the most knowledgeable and influential experts in a particular field. It implies a high level of expertise, experience, and credibility.