Synonyms for

Authorize

Verb / ˈɔ:θɜ:ˌaɪz / Another word for authorize — explore alternatives below. For syllable breakdowns and pronunciation, see this word on Syllablesworld.

Definition

To give official permission or approval for something

Synonyms & similar words

Synonyms by register

Antonyms

Common collocations

  • authorize payment
  • authorize release
  • authorize purchase
  • authorize access
  • authorize use
  • authorize a transaction
  • authorize the budget

Word family

adjective authorized

Usage note

Often used in official or legal contexts. Be careful not to confuse with 'authority', which refers to the power itself or a person/group with that power.

Example sentences

  1. The bank would not authorize the loan.
  2. The president will authorize the use of military force.
  3. I need to authorize the payment before the work can start.
  4. My boss will authorize my vacation time.
  5. The parent must authorize any medical treatment for a child.

Quotes

  • If you want to run for prime minister, you can. If you don't, that's wonderful, too. Shave your armpits, don't shave them, wear flats one day, heels the next. These things are so irrelevant and surface to what it is all really about, and I wish people wouldn't get caught up in that. We want to empower women to do exactly what they want, to be true to themselves, to have the opportunities to develop. Women should feel free to be who they are. It's time that we stop worrying about what other people think.
  • It's time to authorize the use of military force against Iraq.
  • The biggest mistake is believing there is one right way to listen, to talk, to have a conversation -- or a relationship.

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