# arrogate

/ˈæɹoʊˌɡeɪt/ (US) · CEFR C2 · Verb

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/arrogate
Updated: 2026-05-15

## Definition

To take or claim something, like power or a right, that you don't deserve or have permission for. This is usually seen as unfair or overly proud.

For teachers: To claim or seize something, especially power or a right, without justification or legal authority. The action implies presumption and is viewed negatively.

## Examples

- The leader arrogates all power to himself.
- The judiciary must not arrogate to itself the powers of the legislature.
- In his critique, the philosopher argued that science should not arrogate to itself the authority to answer all questions of human meaning and purpose.

## Pitfalls

- Not "The government arrogated the unpopular tax." but "The government abrogated the unpopular tax." — Often confused with 'abrogate' (to repeal or cancel). 'Arrogate' means to claim or seize power, not to cancel something.

## Usage notes

- The verb is transitive and often used reflexively with 'to oneself' or 'to itself'. It typically takes an abstract noun like 'power', 'authority', or 'responsibility' as its object.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.