C1verb formal 2K

Authorize

🇬🇧 UK /["/ˈɔːθəraɪz/","/ˈɔːθəraɪzɪz/","/ˈɔːθəraɪzd/","/ˈɔːθəraɪzɪŋ/"]/ 🇺🇸 US /["/ˈɔːθəraɪz/","/ˈɔːθəraɪzɪz/","/ˈɔːθəraɪzd/","/ˈɔːθəraɪzɪŋ/"]/

Meaning of Authorize

to give official permission for something, or for somebody to do something

In simple words: To give permission or power to do something.

Authorize in a sentence

• I can authorize payments up to £5 000.
• I have authorized him to act for me while I am away.
• The soldiers were authorized to shoot at will.
• Taxes must be authorized by an Act of Parliament.
• The manager had expressly authorized the goods to be removed.
• She tried to break into a security file for which she was not authorized.
• The King authorized his press secretary to demand an apology.
• The police were authorized to record his phone conversations.

How to use Authorize

Use 'authorize' in formal settings when discussing permission or approval, such as in business, law, or official documents. Avoid in casual conversations.

Grammar pattern

authorize + object

Memory hint

Sounds like 'our-thor-ize' — imagine a superhero giving permission!

Related words

Collocations with Authorize

• authorize access
• authorize a transaction
• authorize a request
• authorize changes

Synonyms for Authorize

• approve
• permit
• grant
• empower
• license

Opposites of Authorize

• prohibit
• forbid
• disallow

Common mistakes with Authorize

• Confusing 'authorize' with 'authentic' as they have different meanings.
• Using 'authorize' without an object when it needs one (e.g., 'authorize access' not just 'authorize').
• Mixing up 'authorize' with 'permit', which can have slightly different uses.

Frequently asked questions about Authorize

What does Authorize mean?

To give permission or power to do something.

What is the definition of Authorize?

to give official permission for something, or for somebody to do something

How do you use Authorize in a sentence?

I can authorize payments up to £5 000.

Can you give another example of Authorize?

I have authorized him to act for me while I am away.

What are synonyms for Authorize?

Common alternatives include approve, permit, grant, empower, license.

What is the opposite of Authorize?

Opposite meanings include prohibit, forbid, disallow.

What words go with Authorize?

It commonly pairs with authorize access, authorize a transaction, authorize a request, authorize changes.

What are common mistakes when using Authorize?

Confusing 'authorize' with 'authentic' as they have different meanings. Using 'authorize' without an object when it needs one (e.g., 'authorize access' not just 'authorize'). Mixing up 'authorize' with 'permit', which can have slightly different uses.

How do you pronounce Authorize?

US: /["/ˈɔːθəraɪz/","/ˈɔːθəraɪzɪz/","/ˈɔːθəraɪzd/","/ˈɔːθəraɪzɪŋ/"]/, UK: /["/ˈɔːθəraɪz/","/ˈɔːθəraɪzɪz/","/ˈɔːθəraɪzd/","/ˈɔːθəraɪzɪŋ/"]/. Listen to the audio above to hear native pronunciation.

Is Authorize formal or informal?

"Authorize" is formal, so it fits professional, business, or academic conversations.

When should I use Authorize?

Use 'authorize' in formal settings when discussing permission or approval, such as in business, law, or official documents. Avoid in casual conversations.

What CEFR level is Authorize?

"Authorize" is at C1 level on the CEFR scale.