retaining authority

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "retaining authority" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used in contexts where someone or an organization maintains control or power over a situation or group. Example: "The committee is responsible for retaining authority over the budgetary decisions of the organization."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Academia

Encyclopedias

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

5 human-written examples

Although the HRA is a reserved matter, with Westminster retaining authority, Dr Mac Amhlaigh said there were areas of human rights which have been devolved to Scotland.

Independent

Though he disposes of his kingdom, Lear insists on retaining authority; he wants to exercise power without responsibility, without fulfilling his part of the feudal contract.

The Guardian

Today's Commons vote, which would represent a major constitutional shakeup, was a close-run thing – with the prime minister retaining authority in that area by only two votes.

The Guardian

The latter typically delegate decision making to functional teams, while retaining authority over the team's decisions and taking responsibility for implementing those decisions throughout the development process.

Harvard Business Review

It is arrogant of foreigners to decide that Catalonia should associate itself -- or rather continue to subordinate itself -- to an alien culture that, to say the very least, does not appreciate them but insists on retaining authority over them.

The Guardian

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

55 human-written examples

The university will retain authority over student conduct within.

The New York Times

In France, cities would retain authority to set precise rules.

The New York Times

The French government retains authority over defense, internal security, and various other matters.

Encyclopedia Britannica

He said he and Ms. Gisselquist had invented the index and wanted to retain authority over it.

The New York Times

(The Military Council has stated often that it will retain authority over the Prime Minister's appointment and the cabinet).

The New Yorker

The government controls the area around the capital, Freetown, while the rebels retain authority in the north and east.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

In legal or political contexts, "retaining authority" can underscore the limits of devolved powers, highlighting which entities maintain overall control.

Common error

Avoid assuming that "retaining authority" means absolute control in all situations. Clearly define the specific areas over which authority is retained to prevent ambiguity.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "retaining authority" functions as a verbal phrase indicating the act of keeping or maintaining power, control, or jurisdiction. Ludwig AI confirms that this phrase is usable in written English.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Academia

20%

Encyclopedias

20%

Less common in

Formal & Business

10%

Science

10%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "retaining authority" signifies maintaining control or power, applicable across news, academic, and business spheres. As Ludwig AI indicates, the phrase is grammatically correct and usable, though relatively rare. It's essential to define the scope of authority clearly when using the phrase to avoid ambiguity. Related phrases include "maintaining control" and "keeping command". While authoritative sources like The New York Times and The Guardian employ this phrase, writers should use it judiciously, ensuring context and scope are clearly defined.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

maintaining control

Focuses on the act of keeping control, differing slightly from the explicit notion of 'authority'.

keeping command

Implies maintaining a position of leadership or direct control.

preserving power

Emphasizes the act of safeguarding existing power.

holding onto influence

Highlights the retention of influence rather than formal authority.

upholding jurisdiction

Specifically refers to maintaining legal or official authority.

safeguarding dominance

Suggests protecting a position of superiority or control.

exercising sovereignty

Relates to the act of a sovereign entity maintaining its authority.

asserting supremacy

Emphasizes the act of declaring and maintaining a superior position.

keeping the upper hand

Highlights the importance of maintaining an advantage.

staying in charge

Focuses on the ongoing state of being the person responsible.

FAQs

What does "retaining authority" mean in a legal context?

In legal terms, "retaining authority" means that a governing body or individual maintains the right to make final decisions or enforce regulations, even if some powers are delegated to other entities.

How is "retaining authority" different from delegating authority?

"Retaining authority" means maintaining the power to make ultimate decisions, while delegating authority involves assigning specific responsibilities to others, though the original authority still exists.

What are some situations where an organization might choose to focus on "retaining authority"?

Organizations might focus on "retaining authority" during periods of significant change, when managing high-risk projects, or when ensuring compliance with critical regulations.

What can I say instead of "retaining authority"?

You can use alternatives like "maintaining control", "keeping command", or "preserving power" depending on the specific context.