Word
authorities
Phoneticsau·thor·i·ties, stress on the second syllable
US/əˈθɔɹətiz/
UK/ɐθˈɒɹɪtˌiz/
Definitions
01government or officials
B2 · Upper Intermediate Plural noun
n. the people or organisations in power, such as the government or local council.
n. the collective bodies or individuals possessing political or administrative power in a specific sphere.
“The local authorities are planning to build a new park in the city centre.”
“The regional authorities have faced significant criticism for their failure to address the housing shortage before the winter months.”
Usage
Usually plural; often used with the definite article 'the'.
Synonyms
02law enforcement
B2 · Upper Intermediate Plural noun Law
n. the police or other groups that make sure people follow the law.
n. the agencies or bodies responsible for enforcing law and order or providing essential public services.
“He decided to report the stolen car to the authorities immediately.”
“The suspect was eventually apprehended and handed over to the authorities for further questioning regarding the series of robberies.”
Usage
Typically refers to the police or border control when used in a legal context.
Synonyms
03experts
C1 · Advanced Plural noun Formal
n. people who have a lot of knowledge about a specific subject.
n. individuals or texts recognised as having definitive knowledge or expertise in a particular field.
“The two professors are leading authorities on ancient Greek history.”
“The conference brought together the world's leading authorities on climate science to discuss the latest data on rising sea levels.”
Synonyms
Antonyms
Collocations
Common phrases and expressions where native English speakers use the word “authorities” in context.
Real-World Examples
“I am in touch with the relevant authorities now and will provide further updates as soon as I have more information.” “Videos shared by local authorities showed rescue workers equipped with head-mounted torches using makeshift rafts to reach the flooded section of the tunnel.” “Among those killed was a woman who died inside her car submerged on a flooded road, authorities said.” “Omani authorities as recently as Monday estimated the size of the spill at approximately 400sq kilometres (154sq miles).” - Exam level
- CambridgeCambridgeCambridge English QualificationsThe exam suite from Cambridge University Press & Assessment, from A1 Movers up to C2 Proficiency. The benchmark names double as CEFR labels.B2 FirstIELTSIELTSInternational English Language Testing SystemThe 0–9 band test co-owned by the British Council, IDP, and Cambridge. Used for university entry, work, and migration.5.5–6.5TOEFL iBTTOEFL iBTTest of English as a Foreign Language, Internet-Based TestETS's academic English test, the standard route for US university admissions. Scored 0–120, with a 1–6 scale since 2026.1–6 scale: 4.0–4.572–94TOEICTOEICTest of English for International CommunicationETS's workplace English test, big in Japan and Korea. Listening & Reading scores 10–990 and tops out at C1.785–944
- Frequency
- Common
- Level
- B2 · Upper Intermediate
- Updated
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