Practice Authorize with Flashcards, Spelling and Quizzes

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ACT 1 (American College Testing)

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What does authorize mean?

To grant official permission, power, or authority to someone or something.
"The committee must authorize the budget before the project can proceed."

Detailed Meaning of Authorize

When someone authorizes an action, they give their approval or consent for it to take place. This authorization often comes from a person or entity with the legal or formal authority to do so. It involves conferring the right or ability to perform a particular task, make decisions, or access resources. Authorization can be given for various purposes, such as approving a financial transaction, granting access to restricted areas or information, or endorsing an official document. To authorize implies the recognition of the legitimacy and appropriateness of an action, effectively granting the necessary authorization or clearance to proceed.

Example Sentences for Authorize

1. The manager will authorize the purchase of new equipment.
2. Please seek permission from your supervisor before you authorize any expenses.
3. The board of directors has the power to authorize major decisions.
4. The government agency is responsible for authorizing the use of certain medications.
5. The bank will authorize the loan application if the criteria are met.
6. The CEO is the final authority to authorize any changes in the company's policies.

Origin and Etymology of Authorize

The verb 'authorize' has its roots in the Latin word 'auctorizare,' which is derived from 'auctor,' meaning 'originator' or 'promoter,' and the suffix '-izare,' denoting the act of making or causing. In Latin, 'auctorizare' referred to the act of granting someone the authority or power to act on one's behalf or to carry out a particular task. This concept of conferring official permission or sanction was passed on to Old French, where 'auctorizare' became 'autoriser,' retaining the same sense of granting authority. As it entered Middle English, 'autoriser' evolved into 'authorize,' and the term has continued to signify the act of granting official permission, power, or authority to someone or something. The etymology of 'authorize' underscores its connection to granting the right to act, emphasizing the role of authority and permission in its meaning.

Quiz Question - Test Your Understanding

Find the correct meaning of the verb authorize:

permit

disallow

forbid

prohibit

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Correct!

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More Usage Examples of Authorize

1. The principal will authorize the field trip for the students.
2. The judge will authorize the search warrant based on probable cause.
3. The security clearance is required to authorize access to classified information.
4. The company's legal team will authorize the signing of the contract.
5. The airline will authorize the boarding pass once the security check is completed.
6. The committee needs to authorize the release of the funds for the project.
7. The supervisor will authorize overtime for the employees who need to work additional hours.
8. The insurance company will authorize the medical procedure after reviewing the case.
9. The parent needs to authorize the school to administer medication to their child.
10. The software requires you to authorize access to your personal information.
11. The mayor will authorize the construction of the new park in the city.
12. The publisher will authorize the printing of the author's manuscript.
13. The commanding officer will authorize the deployment of troops to the conflict zone.
14. The customs officer will authorize the entry of the goods into the country.