Translation guide
The English word "authority" covers several distinct concepts: official power, an expert, a governing body, and a sense of confidence. This guide breaks down these meanings and provides natural Japanese equivalents for each.
The official power or right to give orders, make decisions, and enforce obedience.
Refers to the scope of authority or power delegated to a person or position. Commonly used in legal, business, and administrative contexts.
I don't have the authority to make that decision.
He has the authority to approve the budget.
Emphasizes the power or influence to control people or events, often in political or social contexts. Can carry a nuance of force or dominance.
The government holds absolute authority in that region.
He abused his authority.
Specifically means the right to rule or control, often over a territory or organization. More formal and less common in everyday speech.
A dispute arose over authority over the island.
A person with extensive knowledge or recognized expertise in a particular field.
Refers to a person who is an acknowledged expert or a source of reliable information. Often used in academic or professional contexts.
He is an authority on the subject.
This book is known as an authoritative source.
Means a master or leading figure in a field, especially in arts, literature, or traditional disciplines. Conveys great respect.
A general term for specialist or expert. Less formal than 権威 but widely used.
A group or organization that has official power or control in a particular area.
Refers to the relevant authorities or officials, often used in news or formal contexts. Can be singular or plural.
The local authorities have started an investigation.
A general term for an organization, agency, or institution. Often combined with other words to specify the type.
A suffix meaning agency or office, used in official names like 気象庁 (Meteorological Agency). Not used alone.
A quality of being confident, commanding respect, or speaking with knowledge.
Refers to dignity, majesty, or an air of authority that commands respect. Often used for personal presence.
He spoke with authority.
Describes a confident, imposing manner. Literally 'magnificent attitude'.
Literally 'a way of speaking full of confidence'. Used when authority comes from self-assurance.
権限 (けんげん) refers to the scope of authority granted to a role, often within an organization. 権力 (けんりょく) is broader, implying power or influence, sometimes with a political or coercive nuance. Use 権限 for delegated authority and 権力 for overarching power.
The manager has the authority to hire.
The dictator holds absolute authority.
When referring to an expert, do not directly translate 'authority' as 権威 in casual conversation; it can sound overly formal. Use 専門家 (せんもんか) or describe their expertise instead.
He's an authority on computers. (natural)
He is an authority on tea ceremony.
その問題については専門家に聞いたほうがいい。
You should ask an authority on that issue.
Please contact the tax authority.
The regulatory authority announced new rules.
The meteorological authority issued a warning.
She approached the meeting with an air of authority.
His authoritative manner of speaking convinced the audience.