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authority

au·thor·i·ty

authority

pronunciation:: tho rih ti
features:: Word Explorer

part of speech:	noun
inflections:	authorities
definition 1:	When someone has authority, it means they have the power to make decisions and tell other people what to do. The sheriff has the authority to close the roads if the weather is very bad. synonyms: control, power similar words: jurisdiction, rule, say
definition 2:	An authority is a person who has the right or power to make decisions and command others. A person's boss is an authority over them. The manager is the authority you'll have to speak to about this problem.
definition 3:	When people talk about "the authorities," they mean agencies who have certain powers and responsibilities by law, especially agencies like the police and other government departments. "The authorities" are people who are in charge and who are expected to solve problems that may affect many people. When someone saw the burning car in the middle of the highway, they called the authorities. First they called the police, and then they called the fire department.The prisoner escaped and the authorities were unable to catch him for weeks. similar words: agent, officials, police, power
definition 4:	An authority is someone who knows a lot about a particular thing. My uncle is an authority on butterflies. He can answer any question you ask. synonyms: expert similar words: ace, master, reference
related words:	influence, judge

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