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authorization

n.
US //ˌɔθɝəˈzeɪʃən// au·tho·riza·tion
  1. 1 official permission (n.)
    B2 Upper Intermediate Formal

    the official power or permission to do something.

    the state of being formally granted permission or the act of conferring such power. Often uncountable in this sense.

    Example

    You cannot enter the restricted area without written authorization from the manager.

    Example

    The project cannot proceed to the implementation phase until we receive final authorization from the board of directors.

    Usage

    Often followed by the preposition 'for' or an infinitive 'to'.

  2. 2 a permit or document (n.)
    B2 Upper Intermediate Formal

    a document that gives you the formal right to do something.

    a physical or digital document that serves as a warrant or formal sanction for an action.

    Example

    The guard asked to see her travel authorization before letting her pass.

    Example

    The inspector requested a copy of the environmental authorization to ensure the facility was operating within legal limits.

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  1. 3 budgetary approval (n.)
    C1 Advanced Formal Technical Law

    official permission to spend a specific amount of money.

    formal permission, typically legislative or administrative, to expend funds for a designated purpose.

    Example

    The department is waiting for budget authorization to hire new staff.

    Example

    The committee granted a multi-year authorization for the infrastructure project, ensuring that funding would remain stable through the construction phase.

    Teacher's tip

    In government contexts, an 'authorization' often creates the legal framework for a program, while an 'appropriation' actually provides the cash.

Origin

From authorize + -ation.

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