narrative authority

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "narrative authority" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used in discussions about storytelling, literature, or any context where the credibility or control of a narrative is being analyzed. Example: "The author establishes narrative authority by using a first-person perspective that allows readers to connect deeply with the protagonist's thoughts and feelings."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

14 human-written examples

Lindsey's narrative authority feels neither rock solid nor entirely suspect.

The New Yorker

But he was also getting at the erosion of narrative authority in our civic discourse.

The New York Times - Magazine

Zhang uses the collection's structure to check and subvert her characters' narrative authority.

The New Yorker

Absolute narrative authority is a rare commodity, hard to unwrap and (I would argue) near impossible to teach.

The Guardian - Books

Playfully deflating his own narrative authority by allowing admittedly shaky memories to stand as fact, Achebe juxtaposes ostensibly mild personal anecdotes with serious political reflections.

The New York Times - Books

At first, "Atlanta Monster" feels almost like a different genre from "Up and Vanished"—a big leap forward in narrative authority and sophistication.

The New Yorker

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

43 human-written examples

His narrative has authority, though at times it seems overly influenced by the American officials who granted the author close access.In this section That day that changed everything Hide, but you can't run Tudor prose Artistic licence Reprints"Manhunt" is packed with satisfying observations.

The Economist

The photographs help to explain a narrative the authorities have been assembling since Wednesday afternoon, when the shootings occurred at Von Maur, an anchor store at the Westroads Mall on the west side of the city.

The New York Times

"The narrative of the authorities at the top level is that a revolution took place, and was successful with the removal of Mr Mubarak.

The Economist

Environmentalism continues to rely heavily on its narrow repertoire of fear narratives, generally drawing authority from often-selective representations of scientific research.

The Guardian

Despite camera and mobile phone footage showing the Punjab Police damaging vehicles and using violence towards unarmed protesters, Indian and Western press failed to question the authorities' narrative that they only used "minimal force".

Independent

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

In academic writing, clearly define your use of "narrative authority" to avoid ambiguity.

Common error

Avoid assuming that "narrative authority" automatically implies truthfulness. A narrator can possess authority without being entirely reliable or unbiased.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "narrative authority" functions as a noun phrase, typically used as a subject or object in a sentence. As Ludwig AI confirms, it correctly reflects the influence or control a narrator or storyteller has over the narrative, dictating its perception and believability.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

58%

Wiki

16%

Science

16%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

4%

Formal & Business

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "narrative authority" is a noun phrase used to describe the power and credibility a narrator holds within a story or discourse. Ludwig AI confirms that it is grammatically correct and widely used in writing. Based on the analysis of Ludwig's examples, it is most frequently found in News & Media, Wiki and Science contexts, where it is used to critically examine storytelling techniques. Writers should be mindful of the potential for "narrative authority" to be unreliable or biased, even when seemingly credible. Employing the phrase effectively involves understanding its implications and applying it judiciously in analytical and descriptive contexts. Furthermore, considering alternatives like "storytelling power" or "narrative control" can refine the nuances of your expression.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

narrative control

Focuses on the aspect of having command over the narrative.

storytelling power

Emphasizes the strength and influence behind the narrative.

narrative credibility

Stresses believability of the narrative.

narrative influence

Stresses the effect a narrative has on its audience.

narrative validity

Emphasizes the soundness and legitimacy of the narrative.

authorial voice

Highlights the writer's distinctive style and perspective.

narrative dominance

Implies a superior or prevailing narrative.

voice of authority in narration

Highlights the voice of the author with strong authoritativeness.

narrative reliability

Focuses on the trustworthiness and accuracy of the narrative.

interpretive power

Highlights the ability to shape understanding through narrative.

FAQs

How does an author establish "narrative authority"?

Authors establish "narrative authority" through various techniques, including consistent voice, reliable information, and demonstrated expertise. They may also use framing devices or character perspectives to build trust with the reader.

What happens when "narrative authority" is undermined in a story?

Undermining "narrative authority" can create suspense, ambiguity, or unreliable narration. It can also challenge the reader's assumptions and invite them to question the truth or perspective being presented.

How is "narrative authority" different from point of view?

"Narrative authority" concerns the credibility and influence of the narrator, while point of view refers to the perspective from which the story is told. A first-person narrator can have strong "narrative authority" or be unreliable, regardless of their perspective.

What are the effects of shifting "narrative authority" in a text?

Shifting "narrative authority" can provide multiple perspectives, challenge existing power structures, or create a more complex understanding of events. It can also highlight biases or inconsistencies within different accounts.