unchecked authority

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "unchecked authority" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a situation where someone has power or control without any limitations or oversight. Example: "The rise of unchecked authority in the organization led to numerous ethical violations and a toxic work environment."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

50 human-written examples

"This illustrates the principle that unchecked authority goes astray.

The Guardian

the president of Egypt, in response to protests over his seizure of unchecked authority.

The New York Times

Today, as then, the police have unchecked authority to arrest activists (and whoever else).

The New York Times

In China's one-party system, this ranking gives him virtually unchecked authority over the government.

The New York Times

During his decades in power, Mao exerted virtually unchecked authority over the government.

The New York Times

Accordingly, we have determined that no individual or group should be entrusted with unchecked authority over any other.

Independent

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

10 human-written examples

The CFPB is an "unaccountable bureaucracy with unchecked regulatory authority," the White House said in its proposal.

The Washington Post

It frequently invoked unchecked executive authority and national-security concerns as reasons why the courts' reach should not extend to the Oval Office or to other, undisclosed locations.

Princeton University

As happens in times of national security, political dissent would be stifled and the regime given unchecked wartime authority to do whatever it thought best to "protect" the country.

The Guardian - Opinion

While the USPS was recently authorized by the Postal Regulatory Commission PRCC) to implement inflation-based price increases, the USPS is also trying to achieve nearly unchecked pricing authority over regulated services as part of the PRC's ten-year review of the overall rate system.

Forbes

Expedited removal as it exists today takes place in a black box, with unchecked deportation authority by gun-wielding border patrol agents and immigration inspectors.

Huffington Post

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When discussing "unchecked authority", clarify the specific context and the potential consequences of the lack of oversight. Providing concrete examples strengthens your argument and makes the concept more relatable.

Common error

Avoid generalizing "unchecked authority" to all forms of power. It specifically refers to situations where there's a lack of accountability or regulation. Accurately defining the scope prevents misinterpretations.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "unchecked authority" functions as a noun phrase, typically acting as the subject or object of a sentence. It describes a condition where power or control is exercised without any form of oversight or limitation. Ludwig AI confirms its usability.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

75%

Academia

15%

Science

5%

Less common in

Formal & Business

2%

Encyclopedias

1%

Wiki

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "unchecked authority" refers to power exercised without limitations or oversight. Ludwig AI confirms that it is grammatically correct and widely used, particularly in news and academic contexts, to critique situations where power may be abused. While "unchecked authority" can be useful to highlight potential issues, related phrases like "absolute power", "unfettered power", or "unrestrained authority" can provide alternative ways to express the concept depending on the context. When using the phrase, it's important to provide specific examples and avoid overgeneralization to maintain clarity and precision.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

absolute power

This alternative emphasizes the complete and unrestricted nature of the authority.

unfettered power

Similar to "absolute power", it highlights the freedom from any restraints or limitations.

unrestrained authority

Focuses on the absence of any controlling influence or moderation.

unbridled power

Implies a forceful and uncontrolled exercise of authority.

carte blanche

Indicates complete freedom to act as one wishes, a blank check.

license to operate

Highlights the permission to act without constraints, often in a specific domain.

dictatorial control

Suggests a domineering and oppressive form of authority.

tyrannical power

Implies unjust and cruel use of authority.

arbitrary rule

Highlights the lack of reason or fairness in the exercise of authority.

autocratic power

This emphasizes the concentration of power in a single person or entity.

FAQs

How can I use "unchecked authority" in a sentence?

You can use "unchecked authority" to describe situations where power is wielded without limits or accountability. For example: "The dictator's "unchecked authority" led to widespread human rights abuses."

What are some alternatives to "unchecked authority"?

Alternatives include "absolute power", "unfettered power", and "unrestrained authority". The best choice depends on the specific nuance you want to convey.

What is the difference between "unchecked authority" and "delegated authority"?

"Unchecked authority" implies a lack of oversight and accountability, while "delegated authority" refers to power that has been specifically granted by someone else. Delegated authority can still be subject to checks and balances.

Is "unchecked authority" always negative?

While often associated with negative consequences, the term itself simply describes a situation where authority lacks limitations. Whether it's positive or negative depends on how that authority is used and the context in which it operates.