under whose authority

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "under whose authority" is correct and usable in written English.
It is often used when referring to a person, institution, or governing body that has the power to give orders, make decisions, and enforce rules. For example: "The workers had to do as they were told, under the authority of their supervisor."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

12 human-written examples

Asked under whose authority she was refusing to issue them, she replied: "Under God's authority".

Independent

No one doubts that the United States has the capacity to obliterate North Korea, but under whose authority?

The New Yorker

For the name of that hospital, it is reported, is none other than that of General Sani Abacha, a vicious usurper under whose authority the lives of an elected president and his wife were snuffed out.

The Guardian

The report is damning: there was a total lack of clarity, and shared understanding, about the conditions under which different kinds of checks could be suspended, and under whose authority.

The Guardian

If corridors need to be protected, how should they be protected and under whose authority?

Pastoralism

Records suggest that the priory was an arriére-fief of the Benedictine abbey of Mont St. Michel under whose authority it operated.

Wikipedia

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

47 human-written examples

The Canadian Heraldic Authority (CHA; ) is part of the Canadian honours system under the Canadian monarch, whose authority is exercised by the Governor General of Canada.

Wikipedia

This simian Caesar would certainly sympathise with his Roman namesake – a morally conflicted leader whose authority is under threat.

The Guardian - Film

It raised questions about whether the United States now faces brinkmanship over a variety of issues between an emboldened conservative movement and a president whose authority is under challenge.

The New York Times

The proposal would also expand the role of the present Iraqi Governing Council, which was formed under the American occupation but whose authority has not been recognized by Iraq's Arab neighbors or the Security Council.

The New York Times

The first is the doing of three outsiders, who will soon face persecution and punishment for a crime they did not commit; the second rises from the stable of the village master and landowner, a man whose authority comes under attack with the arrival of a distant relative, who is intent on bringing progress to the village.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "under whose authority", ensure that the context clearly indicates the specific domain or area of control being questioned. Clarity prevents ambiguity about what authority is being referenced.

Common error

Avoid assuming that "under whose authority" automatically implies a challenge to legitimacy. While it often carries that implication, the phrase primarily seeks to identify the source of power, not necessarily to dispute it.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "under whose authority" functions as an interrogative prepositional phrase, typically used to inquire about the source or basis of power or permission. It is most often used to question the legitimacy or justification of an action. According to Ludwig, the phrase is grammatically correct and usable in written English.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

35%

Science

33%

Wiki

22%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Encyclopedias

5%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "under whose authority" serves as a pivotal interrogative tool for probing the source and legitimacy of power, commonly employed to question actions or decisions. Ludwig confirms its grammatical correctness and usability. Predominantly featured in news and media, scientific publications, and encyclopedic entries, it suggests a versatility that transcends mere formality, even though it is more commonly found in written communication. It is important to note that using "under whose authority" is not necessarily a negative action, but more an act of requesting accountability from the person or institution that gave the order. In essence, "under whose authority" is about calling attention to the chains of command.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

by whose authorization

Replaces "authority" with "authorization", focusing on the permission or sanction given.

with whose permission

Emphasizes the act of allowing something to happen, rather than the right to command.

on whose orders

Directly questions who issued the command or instruction.

under whose jurisdiction

Focuses on the legal or territorial scope of authority.

by whose mandate

Highlights the legitimacy and popular support behind an action.

on whose say-so

An informal way of questioning the basis of someone's decision.

at whose direction

Highlights the guiding force or leadership behind an action.

based on whose power

Questions the fundamental ability to enforce decisions.

with whose backing

Focuses on the support or endorsement received from a higher authority.

legitimized by whom

Directly asks who validates or makes something acceptable.

FAQs

How can I use "under whose authority" in a sentence?

The phrase "under whose authority" is used to question or inquire about the source of power or permission behind an action or decision. For example, "Under whose authority was this project initiated?"

What are some alternatives to "under whose authority"?

Alternatives to "under whose authority" include phrases like "by whose authorization", "with whose permission", or "on whose orders", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

When is it appropriate to use "under whose authority"?

It's appropriate to use "under whose authority" when you need to know the source of power or decision-making behind a particular action, especially in situations where the legitimacy or justification is unclear or questionable. It can be used in both formal and informal contexts, though it generally carries a tone of inquiry or challenge.

Is "under whose authority" formal or informal?

The phrase "under whose authority" leans towards the formal side, but it can be used in various contexts. More informal alternatives might include "on whose say-so" or "who gave you the right", depending on the situation and audience.