letter of authority

USAGE SUMMARY

"letter of authority" is a valid and grammatically correct phrase in written English.
It is typically used to refer to a formal document or official correspondence that grants permission or gives someone the power to act on behalf of someone else. It is often used in legal or business contexts. Example: The company required a letter of authority from the CEO before I could sign the contract on their behalf.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

6 human-written examples

It was claimed there had been only one witness to the ceremony and a letter of authority had not been obtained from the British consul.

The Guardian

When they came to divorce, you will recall, Jagger sweetly claimed they had never actually been married, on the basis that the 1990 Bali ceremony was null and void because the priest didn't get a letter of authority from the British consul.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

"They are to me," I said, flourishing my letter of authority, signed by the man himself.

Forbes

I will also issue you a letter of authority that will give you absolutely no power over this money in the future.

Huffington Post

After a meeting at the Prime Minister's residence, The Lodge, Whitlam and three of his ministers (Deputy Prime Minister and Treasurer Jim Cairns, Attorney-General Senator Lionel Murphy, and Minister for Minerals and Energy Rex Connor) signed a letter of authority for Connor to borrow up to US$4 billion.

Wikipedia

Bibby has teamed up with asset recovery specialist Marine Risk Management (MRM), whose staff includes former special forces personnel, which can arrest a vessel from its owner on behalf of a bank and sail it to another jurisdiction with a letter of authority from an admiralty court.

Huffington Post

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

54 human-written examples

While the process was crude, it impressed many in its time, including the czar, who supplied a special railroad coach and darkroom, cars, boats and letters of authority that allowed the photographer to create thousands of color plates on numerous trips throughout Russia.

The New York Times - Tech

Letters of authority (Surat Kuasa) were issued when the first Chinese leaders began settling in Johor during the 1850s.

Wikipedia

One of its employees wrote a letter to authorities alleging a lack of standards and integrity in the school's recruiting: "Our admission representatives are required to enroll anyone and everyone.

Huffington Post

In 2001 when the president, Isaias Afwerki, cracked down on all political opposition and jailed more than 10 independent journalists, the Italian ambassador to Eritrea presented a letter of protest to the authorities.

The Guardian

However, changing residential status was very complicated process because the migrants had to obtain a letter of release from sending authorities where they hold their registration book.

IZA Journal of Migration

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When drafting a "letter of authority", clearly specify the exact powers being granted to the authorized individual to avoid any ambiguity or misuse.

Common error

Avoid using vague language that grants excessive power. A common mistake is failing to limit the scope of the "letter of authority", which can lead to unintended consequences.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "letter of authority" functions as a noun phrase, typically acting as the subject or object of a sentence. It signifies a formal document conferring power or permission. Ludwig examples show its use in contexts involving legal matters, business transactions, and official procedures.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Wiki

30%

Formal & Business

15%

Less common in

Science

5%

Encyclopedias

5%

Reference

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "letter of authority" refers to a formal document that grants permission or delegates authority. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is grammatically correct and most commonly found in news and media, as well as wiki contexts. While not overly frequent, its usage is consistent and appropriate in professional settings where clear authorization is required. When using this phrase, it's important to clearly define the scope of authority being granted to avoid potential misunderstandings or misuse.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

authorization letter

This alternative reverses the word order while retaining the core meaning of a letter that authorizes.

letter of authorization

Replaces "authority" with its direct synonym, "authorization", maintaining near-identical meaning.

written authorization

Highlights the written aspect of the authorization, emphasizing its formal nature.

authorizing document

Shifts from a letter to a more general "document" that authorizes, broadening the scope.

grant of authority

Focuses on the act of granting authority, rather than the letter itself.

official permission

Replaces the specific document with the general concept of official permission.

permit to act

Describes the function of the letter, which is to permit someone to act.

license to operate

Implies a formal license is granted to carry out activities.

mandate

Uses a single word denoting a formal order or commission to do something.

instrument of empowerment

Replaces letter to emphasize the empowerment it gives to an individual.

FAQs

What is the purpose of a "letter of authority"?

A "letter of authority" is a formal document that grants someone the power to act on behalf of another person or organization. It is used to delegate specific responsibilities or permissions.

What are some alternatives to "letter of authority"?

Alternatives include "authorization letter", "authorizing document", or "official permission", depending on the context.

How do I write a "letter of authority"?

A "letter of authority" should clearly state the names of the parties involved, the specific powers being granted, and the duration of the authorization. It should be signed and dated by the authorizing party.

Is a "letter of authority" the same as a power of attorney?

While both grant authority, a power of attorney is typically a more formal and comprehensive legal document. A "letter of authority" is often used for more limited and specific situations.