on what authority

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "on what authority" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when questioning the basis or justification for a statement, action, or belief. Example: "On what authority do you claim that this policy will be effective?"

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

22 human-written examples

Although few men cite the Koran as justification for hitting their spouses, Ms. Alkhateeb said that in every seminar she organized about ending domestic violence, at least one man invariably asked on what authority the verse could be reinterpreted.

The New York Times

On what authority?

The New Yorker

Who instituted them, on what authority?

The Economist

On what authority or charges was he even being held?

The New York Times

"It's not clear on what authority this is happening," said Sally Sami, a human-rights activist.

The New York Times

Polly Toynbee: The real conflict is over who runs the world - and on what authority.

The Guardian

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

38 human-written examples

Over the course of 24 hours, more than 70 people overdosed on what authorities considered to be synthetic marijuana, with dozens of those overdoses occurring on the New Haven Green, a historic downtown park bordering the Yale University campus.

The Washington Post

The Supreme Court decided the issue by a narrow, 5-to-4 vote based on contrary readings of what authority had been granted to the F.D.A. by Congress.

The New York Times

Any new gun-control effort will rest partly on what authorities learn about the attacker.

The New Yorker

"That was a simple decision based on what authorities in Trenton called.

The New York Times

Greens There should be no limit on what authorities in England and Wales can raise through council tax, according to the Greens.

Independent

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When employing the phrase, consider the audience and context. While effective in formal settings, it might sound overly confrontational in casual conversations. Adjust your tone accordingly to maintain professionalism or avoid unintended offense.

Common error

Avoid using "on what authority" when simply seeking information or clarification. This phrase implies a challenge to someone's right to act or speak, not a neutral request for details. If you only need information, use phrases like "Could you explain your reasoning?" or "What are your sources for this information?".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "on what authority" functions as an interrogative phrase, specifically designed to challenge the justification or basis of a statement, action, or belief. As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase is correct and appropriate for use.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

65%

Wiki

15%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Science

5%

Encyclopedias

3%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "on what authority" serves as a direct challenge to the basis of a claim or action. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and widespread use. It’s particularly potent in formal settings like news, legal discussions, and business to prompt justifications. While alternatives like "by what right" or "with what justification" exist, understanding the implied challenge is key. Avoid using it simply for information, or you risk sounding confrontational.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

by what right

Emphasizes the legitimacy or entitlement to do something.

with what justification

Asks for the reasons or rationale behind an action or statement.

under what jurisdiction

Focuses specifically on the legal power or scope of control.

by what power

Emphasizes the strength or force enabling an action.

on whose authorization

Highlights the person or entity granting permission.

what is the basis for

Inquires about the foundation or support for a claim or decision.

where does the power come from

Alternative structure to question the basis of someone's ability or capacity to act.

what empowers you to

Questions the source of someone's ability or capacity to act.

what mandate allows you to

Focuses on the specific instructions or permissions granted.

what are the credentials for

Questions the qualification or expertise to have a specific opinion or to execute a task.

FAQs

How do I use "on what authority" in a sentence?

Use "on what authority" to question the basis or justification for an action, statement, or belief. For example: "On what authority do you claim this policy will be effective?"

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

Alternatives include "by what right", "under what jurisdiction", or "with what justification", depending on the specific nuance you wish to convey.

When is it appropriate to use the phrase "on what authority"?

This phrase is appropriate when challenging the legitimacy or justification behind someone's actions or statements, particularly in formal or investigative contexts. It is less suitable for casual conversation or when simply seeking clarification.

What is the tone conveyed by using "on what authority"?

The phrase "on what authority" conveys a tone of challenge or questioning. It implies skepticism and demands a clear and valid reason for the action or statement in question. Therefore, it might be more suitable for formal settings.