Cool MateAuthority vs Command
When to use each in English, with meaning, register, and examples.
Authority
Top 2,000 (common)B1noun
Command
Top 1,000 (very common)B2noun
Most common: Command
| Authority | Command | |
|---|---|---|
| Pronunciation | 🇬🇧 //əˈθɔːrɪti//🇺🇸 //əˈθɔːrɪti// | 🇬🇧 /["/kəˈmɑːnd/"]/🇺🇸 /["/kəˈmænd/"]/ |
| Meaning | The power or right to give orders and make decisions. | An order to do something. |
| Example | The teacher has authority over the students. | Her ability to command attention in the classroom is impressive. |
| Register | Neutral | Neutral |
| How common | Top 2,000 (common) | Top 1,000 (very common) |
| CEFR level | B1 | B2 |
| Part of speech | noun | noun |
| Collocations | exercise authority, recognize authority, challenge authority | basic, simple, carry out, obey, disobey, at somebody’s command, your wish is my command, spoken, verbal, voice, enter, type, use, line, prompt, complete, full, total, have, assume, take, centre/center, chair, deck, in command, in command of, under somebody’s command, the chain of command, the line of command, excellent, fluent, good, have, demonstrate, show, at your command, command of |
| Antonyms | powerlessness, subordination | submission, compliance, inaction |
| Common mistakes | Confused with 'author' - authority refers to power, not authorship., Misused in singular form; should often use 'authorities' for multiple groups or people. | 'Command' is confused with 'demand' but is less aggressive., Learners often use 'command' without an object, forgetting it typically requires one., Mispronouncing 'command' as 'comand'. |
| Usage notes | Used in both formal and informal contexts. Often refers to organizations or individuals in positions of power. | Use 'command' when giving direct instructions, especially in formal contexts like military or authority. Avoid in casual conversations where 'ask' or 'request' might be more appropriate. |
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Frequently asked questions: Authority vs Command
What's the difference between Authority and Command?
Authority: The power or right to give orders and make decisions. Command: An order to do something.
Which is more common: Authority and Command?
Command is the most common in everyday English.
Which is more advanced: Authority and Command?
Command is the highest level, at B2, on the CEFR scale.
Are Authority and Command the same CEFR level?
Authority: B1, Command: B2 on the CEFR scale.
What part of speech are Authority and Command?
Authority: noun, Command: noun.
Can you show an example of each?
Authority: The teacher has authority over the students. Command: Her ability to command attention in the classroom is impressive.
Can I use Authority and Command interchangeably?
Not always. Authority and Command are related and overlap in some contexts, but they differ in register, how common they are, and usage, so swapping one for another can change the meaning or tone. Check the differences above before substituting.