authorities
noun (countable)
UK/ɔːˈθɒr.ɪ.tiz/US/ɑːˈθɔːr.ɪ.tiz/
Experts or reliable sources in a particular field.
Example Sentences
When it comes to climate change, scientists are the authorities.
He is considered one of the authorities on ancient history.
For legal advice, you should consult the authorities in your area.
Authorities in the field of medicine continue to advance our understanding of diseases.
She turned to literary authorities for guidance on her novel.
Authorities on the subject recommend regular exercise for maintaining health.
The report was reviewed by several authorities before publication.
Authorities in technology predict significant advancements in artificial intelligence.
Thesaurus
Synonyms
How to Use
Recognized institutions or individuals empowered to govern, regulate, or oversee matters.“Authorities” generally means those who possess official power or control in a particular domain—like government agencies, police forces, or regulatory bodies. For instance, you might say “the local authorities” are investigating a crime, or “tax authorities” are managing financial compliance. These institutions have the mandate to create rules, enforce them, and, if necessary, penalize noncompliance. In everyday talk, someone might refer to “the authorities” if they’re dealing with officials who have the final say—like immigration or health inspectors. Whether in legal, administrative, or security contexts, “authorities” signals a formal capacity to direct or control outcomes, often rooted in law or recognized governance structures.
Alternatives
Depending on the setting, words like “officials,” “agencies,” or “regulators” can replace “authorities.” “Officials” focuses on individual persons acting under a formal role (like a mayor or commissioner). “Agencies” or “regulatory bodies” emphasize the institutional aspect—like the Environmental Protection Agency or similar. “Law enforcement” may be used if specifically referencing the police. “Government” could work if speaking of the state as a whole. Each choice points to those who hold recognized power or accountability in certain areas. “Authorities” remains broad and somewhat impersonal, covering multiple roles or organizations vested with official duties.
Writing
When writing about “authorities” in formal or academic texts, specify which type or level—local, regional, national, or international. For instance, “Health authorities issued new guidelines,” or “Local authorities administered disaster relief.” If referencing multiple sectors—like banking regulators, fire marshals, or educational boards—name them to clarify responsibilities. In historical or political analyses, discuss how these authorities came to hold power, what limits apply, and how they collaborate or clash with other institutions. Including details on laws or contexts that grant their authority helps readers see the scope of their mandate or potential conflicts of interest.
Casual Conversation
In everyday conversation, “the authorities” appears if you discuss interactions with government offices or law enforcement. Someone might say, “We reported the theft to the authorities,” meaning police or local officials handle it. Or if there’s a community issue—loud parties or suspicious activities—neighbors might call “the authorities” to intervene. On a smaller scale, if discussing official rules or new public regulations, you might mention, “The authorities aren’t letting people park here anymore,” implying local government or city officials changed the policy. The phrase can also show a sense of powerlessness or deferral: “We’ll have to wait and see what the authorities decide.” Overall, “authorities” in casual talk underscores the presence of official power in daily life, from resolving disputes to enforcing rules or addressing emergencies.
Etymology
“Authorities” comes from “authority,” which ultimately derives from the Latin “auctoritas,” meaning “influence” or “command.” In ancient Rome, “auctoritas” reflected established legitimacy or recognized standing. As the term passed through Old French into Middle English, it solidified its role denoting power, especially in governance or legal spheres. “Authorities” in the plural later evolved to describe multiple offices or official bodies wielding such power collectively. Today, it remains the go-to term for referencing governmental, administrative, or policing entities entrusted to uphold laws, maintain order, and exercise control within their jurisdiction.