of a higher authority

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "of a higher authority" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
You can use it to refer to someone or something that holds a position of authority and is considered to be superior or more important than others. For example: "All decisions made by members of the student council must be approved by a higher authority before they can be implemented."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

23 human-written examples

It is very hard for a human being to accept the power of a higher authority.

The New York Times - Sports

The murders are deemed sufficiently provocative to appeal to the mediation services of a higher authority.

The Guardian

Quarrels can turn into feuds for lack of a higher authority to settle them.

Encyclopedia Britannica

But this answer assumes the presence of a higher authority that can enforce the agreement.

Encyclopedia Britannica

The condition of anarchy refers to the absence of a higher authority to adjudicate international disputes.

Encyclopedia Britannica

His censorship is defensive: rather than promoting an agenda or covering up some specific truth, he tries to avoid catching the eye of a higher authority.

The New Yorker

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

37 human-written examples

Fasting during the holy month is one of the five pillars of Islam and a form of submission to a higher authority.

Los Angeles Times

The issue of speaking to a higher authority before games, and possibly after, got Knicks Coach Jeff Van Gundy embroiled in controversy.

The New York Times - Sports

Her lawyer, Ciro Quiroz, said he would challenge Mr. Ordóñez's ruling, but he acknowledged that he lacked the option of appealing to a higher authority.

The New York Times

Milovan, court-martialled by the Legion, was cleared of the charges by a higher authority; however, those who killed Dâmbu were sentenced as mutineers and assassins.

Wikipedia

"The other side of that deal is when a higher authority makes a decision, you have to advocate that position publicly".

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "of a higher authority", ensure the context clearly defines or implies who or what constitutes that authority to avoid ambiguity. For example, specify "of a higher religious authority" or "of a higher governmental authority".

Common error

Avoid using "of a higher authority" when the actual power dynamic is peer-to-peer or collaborative. Reserve this phrase for situations involving genuine hierarchical control or decision-making power.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "of a higher authority" functions as a post-modifier in sentences, specifying the nature or source of power, control, or decision-making. Ludwig's examples demonstrate its role in indicating hierarchical structures or ultimate control.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

41%

Encyclopedias

33%

Science

26%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "of a higher authority" is a correct and usable phrase, as confirmed by Ludwig AI, typically employed to denote subordination or the ultimate source of power. Its neutral to formal register makes it suitable for news, encyclopedic content, and academic discourse. The phrase conveys legitimacy, control, or responsibility, and it's crucial to ensure context clarifies who or what constitutes the "higher authority". While alternatives such as "under superior command" or "governed by a supreme power" exist, they subtly shift the emphasis. Understanding these nuances helps writers effectively communicate hierarchical relationships or decision-making dynamics.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

under superior command

This alternative specifies a hierarchical structure with a clear chain of command.

subject to ultimate control

This highlights the idea of being governed by a final, unchallengeable power.

governed by a supreme power

This emphasizes the ruling influence of a higher entity.

answerable to a greater power

This conveys the obligation to justify actions to a more significant authority.

within a higher jurisdiction

This refers to operating under the legal or administrative control of a superior body.

subject to higher approval

This emphasizes the need for authorization from a superior source.

under the purview of a senior body

This highlights the responsibility and oversight of a more experienced or powerful entity.

decided by an elevated tribunal

This focuses on dispute resolution through a more powerful adjudicative body.

determined by the top echelon

This emphasizes that the ultimate decision-makers reside at the highest level of an organization.

under the direction of a leading source

This conveys being managed by a prominent and influential entity.

FAQs

How can I use "of a higher authority" in a sentence?

You can use "of a higher authority" to indicate that someone or something is subject to a superior power or decision-maker. For example, "The decision was made by "superior command", not by the local branch."

What are some alternatives to "of a higher authority"?

Alternatives include "under superior command", "subject to ultimate control", or "governed by a supreme power", depending on the specific context.

Is it always necessary to explicitly identify the "higher authority"?

Not always, but clarity is essential. If the "higher authority" is not obvious from the context, specify it. For example, instead of saying "The decision came from of a higher authority", say "The decision came from the CEO."

What's the difference between "of a higher authority" and "from a superior"?

"Of a higher authority" refers to the abstract concept of an elevated power or decision-making body, while "from a superior" specifies the origin or source of something. For example, "The directive was issued by a superior" indicates the source, whereas "The process requires the approval of a higher authority" indicates the necessary level of approval.