weight of authority

USAGE SUMMARY

'weight of authority' is correct and can be used in written English.
You can use it in a variety of contexts to refer to the strength of an authority or the power of their decision. For example, "The weight of authority lay with the judge as he made his ruling."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

8 human-written examples

"It further highlights that the weight of authority is that these laws are unconstitutional".

The New York Times

"It comes as something of a surprise because it is contrary to the overwhelming weight of authority on this issue nationwide," he said.

The New York Times

Nevertheless, decades of creating interiors and presiding with her husband, Carl Apfel, over Old World Weavers, a textile and design company, have conferred on Mrs. Apfel the weight of authority.

The New York Times

Lately, however, it has taken on the weight of authority and I find myself justifying my point of view because of my status as an "Elder".

Huffington Post

Although the weight of authority at the moment appears to be on the side of those who find that affirmative action does, indeed, benefit its intended beneficiaries, the matter is still open to debate.

Huffington Post

Olivier winner Suzanne Bertish is immediately commanding as Madame Argante, effortlessly conveying the weight of authority that only old money can provide; even sitting quietly on a couch she draws your attention.

Huffington Post

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

51 human-written examples

The people, who let an authority to lead them, enforce the weight of this authority.

Vietnam Journal of Computer Science

When the principle is violated by the democratic assembly, the assembly loses its authority in that instance or the moral weight of the authority is overridden.

SEP

It would seem that Stern used the full weight of his authority to push for resolution.

The New York Times - Sports

The weight of societal authority thus stands behind the slain official's recriminations against the libertine.

The New York Times - Arts

Regardless of the heavy historical weight of academic authority, every lecturer's worst nightmare is a group of students who will not speak.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "weight of authority" when you want to emphasize the significant influence or persuasive power that a recognized expert or institution brings to a situation.

Common error

Avoid using "weight of authority" when the source cited lacks genuine expertise or widespread recognition in the relevant field. Ensure the authority is credible and appropriately cited.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "weight of authority" functions as a noun phrase, typically used as a subject or object in a sentence. It signifies the degree of influence or importance attributed to an authoritative source or figure. Ludwig confirms that the phrase is suitable for written English.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Science

30%

Encyclopedias

10%

Less common in

Wiki

5%

Formal & Business

5%

Reference

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "weight of authority" is a noun phrase that effectively conveys the significant influence and credibility of an expert or institution. Ludwig confirms its grammatical correctness and suitability for written English. It commonly appears in news, science, and encyclopedia contexts, and is used to add gravitas to arguments or decisions. While generally neutral, it leans towards formality. When using this phrase, ensure the source cited truly possesses substantial authority. By considering these points, writers can leverage the phrase "weight of authority" accurately and effectively.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

force of authority

Replaces "weight" with "force", emphasizing the power or influence that authority exerts.

power of authority

Substitutes "weight" with "power", highlighting the control and influence that comes with authority.

influence of authority

Replaces "weight" with "influence", focusing on the impact and effect that authority has.

impact of authority

Changes "weight" to "impact", stressing the significant effect authority can have.

strength of authority

Uses "strength" instead of "weight", indicating the robustness and effectiveness of authority.

credibility of authority

Focuses on the believability and trustworthiness of the authority figure or source.

clout of authority

Emphasizes the informal influence and leverage that authority can provide.

leverage of authority

Highlights the strategic advantage that authority confers.

prestige of authority

Concentrates on the reputation and high regard associated with authority.

dominance of authority

Indicates the superior control and power exerted by the authority.

FAQs

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

You can use "weight of authority" to emphasize the persuasive power of an expert or institution. For example, "The court gave significant weight to the expert's testimony, acknowledging the weight of his authority in the field."

What phrases are similar to "weight of authority"?

Similar phrases include "force of authority", "power of authority", or "influence of authority".

Is "weight of authority" formal or informal?

The phrase "weight of authority" is generally considered formal and suitable for professional, academic, or news-related contexts.

What's the difference between "weight of authority" and "burden of proof"?

While "weight of authority" refers to the persuasive power of an expert or institution, "burden of proof" refers to the obligation to provide sufficient evidence to support a claim.