on good authority

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "on good authority" is a phrase often used in written English.
It is typically used to refer to information that is reliable, or information that the speaker trusts to be true. For example, "I heard that he was leaving, but I cannot confirm it; however, I heard it on good authority."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

This may sound like Chinese fortune cookie material, but one hears on good authority that it is a Danish proverb.

The New York Times - Arts

But from medieval times to the 18th century and even into the 19th, a probable belief was most often merely one that seemed plausible, came on good authority, or was worthy of approval.

Encyclopedia Britannica

I have it on good authority.

The New York Times - Sports

I have this on good authority.

The New Yorker

She has the bra size on good authority.

The Guardian

WE'RE told on good authority that history repeats itself, but this is getting ridiculous.

The Economist

Baobab has it on good authority that Mr Biti is a fervent Arsenal fan.

The Economist

I have it on good authority that Luke Skywalker wants increased galactic unity".

The Guardian - Opinion

It was said at the time, on good authority, that the Queen fancied her poet laureate.

The Guardian - Books

I have it on good authority that other fathers play this game.

The New York Times - Tech

We have this on good authority from an impeccable source: the senator's mother.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "on good authority" when you want to indicate that your information comes from a source you consider reliable but wish to remain unnamed. This adds credibility without revealing sensitive information.

Common error

Avoid using "on good authority" if the source is questionable or unverified. Overusing the phrase can diminish its impact and create doubt about the reliability of your information.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "on good authority" functions as a prepositional phrase, typically used adverbially to modify a verb or clause. It indicates the source or basis for a piece of information, implying a degree of reliability. Ludwig confirms its usage in providing credible information.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

98%

Encyclopedias

1%

Wiki

1%

Less common in

Science

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "on good authority" is a common and grammatically sound prepositional phrase used to indicate that information comes from a reliable, though often unnamed, source. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is particularly prevalent in news and media contexts to lend credibility to statements. While effective, consider alternatives like "from a reliable source" or "according to trustworthy sources" for variety. Remember to use the phrase judiciously, ensuring the source is genuinely trustworthy to maintain credibility. Using the phrase in any other condition may be misleading.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

from a reliable source

Emphasizes the trustworthiness of the source.

i have it from a good source

Indicates personal knowledge from a reputable origin.

according to trustworthy sources

Highlights multiple dependable sources.

authoritative sources confirm

Underscores the power and accuracy of the information.

based on credible information

Focuses on the believability of the details.

i'm reliably informed

Highlights the speaker's confidence in the information's accuracy.

well-informed sources claim

Emphasizes expertise and knowledge of the source.

reportedly

Implies the information is circulated but not definitively confirmed.

sources say

Attributes information to unnamed informants.

it is rumored

Suggests informal, possibly unverified, information.

FAQs

How can I use "on good authority" in a sentence?

You can use "on good authority" to introduce information that you believe to be true because it comes from a trusted source. For example, "I heard "on good authority" that the company is planning a major restructuring."

What can I say instead of "on good authority"?

You can use alternatives like "from a reliable source", "according to trustworthy sources", or "based on credible information depending on the context.

Is it better to name the source instead of saying "on good authority"?

Naming the source is preferable when possible, as it provides greater transparency and allows the audience to assess the credibility of the information themselves. However, "on good authority" is useful when the source needs to remain anonymous.

When is it inappropriate to use "on good authority"?

It's inappropriate to use "on good authority" if you do not genuinely trust the source, or if you are intentionally trying to mislead your audience. Always ensure you believe the information to be credible.