supreme authority

USAGE SUMMARY

"supreme authority" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
You can use it to refer to the highest level or ultimate power in a particular setting, such as a government, organization, or family. For example: The Supreme Court is the supreme authority on legal matters in the United States.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

But the senator never obtained supreme authority.

The Economist

I definitely like the term "supreme authority".

The New York Times

Amid universal chaos, Beethoven exuded supreme authority.

The New Yorker

Nevertheless, supreme authority was passed to the French resident general.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Immediately asserting his supreme authority, Mr. Mugabe insists that the doctor change his necktie.

The New York Times

Among the Gentile congregations, the Apostles sent by Jesus enjoyed supreme authority.

Encyclopedia Britannica

They have even begun to question the doctrine which vests supreme authority in Ayatollah Khamenei.

Independent

The supreme authority in judicial matters was the Great Council of Malines, founded in 1504.

Encyclopedia Britannica

The supreme authority of the Bible in all matters of faith and practice.

Encyclopedia Britannica

The ecumenical council is recognized as the supreme authority within the Roman Catholic Church.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Do you have supreme authority to decide what stays and what goes?

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "supreme authority", ensure the context clearly defines the scope and limits of that authority to avoid ambiguity.

Common error

Avoid assuming "supreme authority" is absolute in all contexts. Even the highest authority may be subject to legal or ethical constraints.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "supreme authority" functions as a noun phrase, typically serving as the subject or object of a sentence. Ludwig AI confirms its proper usage in written English. Examples show it describing entities holding ultimate control or decision-making power.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

35%

Encyclopedias

33%

Science

17%

Less common in

Wiki

5%

Formal & Business

5%

Reference

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "supreme authority" is a widely used noun phrase that denotes the highest level of power or control within a specific context. Ludwig AI validates its grammatical correctness and provides numerous examples of its usage across diverse sources, including news media, encyclopedias, and scientific publications. While its register tends toward neutral to formal, the phrase is readily understood across various settings. When using "supreme authority", ensure the scope of that authority is clearly defined to avoid ambiguity. Remember, even the highest authority may have limits.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

ultimate power

This alternative emphasizes the power aspect, highlighting the ability to control or influence.

highest power

Similar to "ultimate power", but may suggest a hierarchical structure.

final say

This phrase suggests the ability to make the concluding decision.

absolute dominion

This implies complete control over a territory or people.

unquestionable control

Focuses on the lack of challenge or resistance to the authority.

chief command

Suggests leadership and the power to direct actions.

top leadership

Focuses on the leadership aspect of authority, particularly in organizations.

ruling power

Emphasizes the power to govern and make decisions for a group or nation.

governing body

This refers to the group or institution that holds the authority.

controlling influence

Highlights the ability to affect outcomes and behavior.

FAQs

How is "supreme authority" typically used in a sentence?

"Supreme authority" is often used to describe a person, group, or institution that has the highest level of control or decision-making power within a specific domain. For example, "The Supreme Court has "final authority" on constitutional matters".

What are some alternatives to "supreme authority"?

Depending on the context, alternatives to "supreme authority" include "ultimate power", "highest power", or "final say".

Which is more appropriate, "supreme authority" or "high authority"?

"Supreme authority" implies the highest possible level of authority, while "high authority" simply indicates a significant level of authority. The choice depends on the specific degree of power you wish to convey.

What's the difference between "supreme authority" and "divine authority"?

"Supreme authority" refers to the highest level of power in a secular or human context. "Divine authority" refers to power or authority believed to come from a god or higher power.