noun

authority

uh-THOR-uh-tee/əˈθɔːrəti/

Recognized power to direct decisions or judgment.

The officer uses his authority to direct traffic through the intersection.

A uniformed traffic officer directs a driver to stop while allowing another lane to proceed; recognized authority to make decisions, no confrontation.

Etymology

Auctor could mean a leader or responsible person, not merely a writer. Authority expresses the influence or standing associated with such a person, extending to the recognized right to command.

In context

Grace to You2:04

I don't have a right to rule the leadership of the church. I don't have any right to make decisions about everything. The only authority that I possess, it's not academic because I'm better trained

Practical Concerns in the Local Church: An Interview with John MacArthur (Selected Scriptures)

More examples

The local authority reviews applications for building permits.
She is a leading authority on medieval manuscripts.
Only the manager has authority to approve this expense.

Forms

authority · authorities

Similar words

power: Is broader and does not necessarily imply recognized legitimacy.
expert: Specifically describes someone trusted for specialized knowledge.