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authorities

n.
US //əˈθɔɹətiz// UK //ɐθˈɒɹɪtˌiz// au·thor·i·ties
  1. 1 government or officials (n.)
    B2 Upper Intermediate

    the people or organisations in power, such as the government or local council.

    the collective bodies or individuals possessing political or administrative power in a specific sphere.

    Example

    The local authorities are planning to build a new park in the city centre.

    Example

    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'.
  2. 2 law enforcement (n.)
    B2 Upper Intermediate Law

    the police or other groups that make sure people follow the law.

    the agencies or bodies responsible for enforcing law and order or providing essential public services.

    Example

    He decided to report the stolen car to the authorities immediately.

    Example

    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.
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  1. 3 experts (n.)
    C1 Advanced Formal

    people who have a lot of knowledge about a specific subject.

    individuals or texts recognised as having definitive knowledge or expertise in a particular field.

    Example

    The two professors are leading authorities on ancient Greek history.

    Example

    The conference brought together the world's leading authorities on climate science to discuss the latest data on rising sea levels.

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