sphere of authority

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "sphere of authority" is correct and commonly used in written English.
It refers to the extent or range of one's power or control. You can use it in various contexts, such as discussing someone's job responsibilities or a government's jurisdiction. Here is an example sentence: "The company's CEO has the ultimate sphere of authority for all decisions regarding the company's budget and financial strategy."

✓ Grammatically correct

Encyclopedias

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

7 human-written examples

The principle that each of these classes was independent of the other two within its sphere of authority had enduring consequences in Europe.

Encyclopedia Britannica

In the 17th century the already existing généralité became the sphere of authority of the intendant, a direct agent of the king with wide police, justice, and finance powers.

Encyclopedia Britannica

The first is that it has jurisdiction only over foods shipped in interstate commerce; foods marketed within the state where they were grown are entirely outside its sphere of authority, no matter what the violation.

The New Yorker

That increasing lack of belief is not confined to religion alone, but appears to be affecting almost every other sphere of authority - while new technology allows individuals to access more knowledge than ever before about the world around us, while apparently leaving us no happier.

BBC

According to Bork 1990, adherence to originalism in US constitutional interpretation is necessary to ensure that the judiciary confines itself to its proper sphere of authority, thus preserving the separation of powers and structure of government in the form in which the founders of the US intended.

SEP

From the 1040s onwards, however, successive popes had put forward a reforming message that emphasised the importance of the church being "governed more coherently and more hierarchically from the centre" and established "its own sphere of authority and jurisdiction, separate from and independent of that of the lay ruler", in the words of historian Richard Huscroft.

Wikipedia

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

53 human-written examples

Unlike cities such as Indianapolis and Charlotte, which consolidated regional governments, the Atlanta area remains balkanised into scores of towns and cities and dozens of counties, often with overlapping spheres of authority and generally run by mayors and county officials that protect their own and don't coordinate with, or particularly like, each other as much as they should.

The Economist

For example, Quinn (1984) speaks of a "picture of morality as a nexus of independent spheres of authority to permit, forbid, and require" (49) and, because he sees the capacity to will as sufficient for such authority, it is also sufficient for FMS.

SEP

The difficulty with this solution lies in its political rather than economic requirements, because the acceptance of a market system entrusted with the coordination of the bulk of economic activity requires the tolerance of a sphere of private authority apart from that of public authority.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Yes – in the sphere of public authority.

The Guardian - Opinion

The father image usually is associated with the sphere of heaven, authority, dominion, age, wisdom, and struggle.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When discussing hierarchical structures, clearly define each role's "sphere of authority" to avoid conflicts and ensure smooth operations.

Common error

Avoid creating ambiguity by ensuring that different roles or departments have distinct "spheres of authority". Overlapping responsibilities can lead to inefficiency and disputes.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "sphere of authority" functions as a noun phrase, often acting as a subject complement or object of a preposition. Ludwig AI indicates the phrase is correct and commonly used. Examples from Ludwig show its use in defining the scope of control or responsibility.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

27%

Encyclopedias

21%

Science

21%

Less common in

Wiki

15%

Formal & Business

15%

Academia

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "sphere of authority" is a commonly used and grammatically correct term that describes the extent of one's power, control, or influence. As Ludwig AI confirms, it appears in diverse contexts, including news, encyclopedias, and scientific publications. Related phrases include "area of jurisdiction" and "scope of power". When using this phrase, clarity is key: define the boundaries to avoid overlaps and ensure accountability. Whether in formal writing or professional settings, "sphere of authority" serves as a useful tool for delineating responsibilities and structuring relationships.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

area of jurisdiction

Focuses specifically on the legal or official boundaries of control.

scope of power

Emphasizes the extent and reach of the authority.

realm of influence

Highlights the ability to affect or change something, rather than direct control.

domain of control

Stresses the act of governing or directing something.

purview

A more formal and concise term for the scope of authority or responsibility.

ambit of authority

Suggests the boundaries or limits of the authority.

mandate

Focuses on the official permission or instruction to act.

zone of control

Implies a physical or strategic area where authority is exercised.

field of competence

Emphasizes the skills and knowledge relevant to the authority.

capacity for command

Highlights the inherent ability to lead and exert authority.

FAQs

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

You can use "sphere of authority" to describe the area over which someone has control or responsibility. For instance, "The manager's sphere of authority includes overseeing all aspects of the project."

What's a synonym for "sphere of authority"?

Alternatives include "area of jurisdiction", "scope of power", or "realm of influence". The best choice depends on the specific context.

What is the difference between "sphere of authority" and "sphere of influence"?

"Sphere of authority" implies direct control and decision-making power, while "sphere of influence" suggests the ability to affect or sway decisions without necessarily having direct authority.

Is it appropriate to use "sphere of authority" in formal writing?

Yes, "sphere of authority" is suitable for formal writing. It's a clear and professional way to describe the extent of someone's power or control, appropriate in contexts like legal documents, business reports, and academic papers.