# auspices

/ˈɔspɪsɪz/ (US) · /ˈɔːspɪsɪz/ (UK) · CEFR C1 · Noun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/auspices
Updated: 2026-05-07

## Definition

the support, help, or protection of a person or organization. You usually use this when a project is happening under the official name of a group.

For teachers: the patronage, support, or guidance provided by an organization or individual. Often implies a formal framework of protection or sponsorship.

## Examples

- The concert was held under the auspices of the city council.
- The medical mission operated under the auspices of the Red Cross to ensure safe passage through the region.
- While the research was conducted under the auspices of the university, the funding was provided entirely by private donors who maintained no control over the final results.

## Pitfalls

- Not "under the auspice of" but "under the auspices of" — The word is a pluralia tantum in this sense; using the singular form is considered non-standard.

## Usage notes

- Almost exclusively used in the plural form and within the prepositional phrase 'under the auspices of'.

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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.