authorities (B1)
noun
Pronunciation: /əˈθɒrɪtiz/
Definition
People or organizations that have the power to make decisions and enforce rules, especially the government or police.
Examples
The local authorities have issued a warning about the upcoming storm.
She contacted the authorities to report the suspicious activity.
He is currently negotiating with the authorities over the new building permit.
How to Use authorities
- authority on (prepositional phrase)
- Having expert knowledge about a specific subject. — "He is a recognized authority on ancient Roman history."
- in authority (prepositional phrase)
- Having power or control. — "The teacher is in authority in the classroom."
- abuse authority (collocation)
- To use power unfairly or wrongly. — "The report detailed instances where officers were accused of abusing their authority."
Synonyms of authorities
Words with a similar meaning to authorities:
Antonyms of authorities
Words with the opposite meaning to authorities:
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