Authorize Meaning
Authorize Definition & Usage
To grant permission, power, or authority to someone to do something.
Examples
- "The manager authorized the team to proceed with the new project."
- "Only the board of directors can authorize such a large expenditure."
- "The government has authorized the use of new technology in healthcare."
- "I can't authorize any changes to the system without consulting the IT department."
- "The CEO authorized the release of the product next month."
To officially approve or validate an action, decision, or document.
Examples
- "The court authorized the search warrant based on new evidence."
- "The company authorized the contract after reviewing the terms."
- "They authorized the payment after confirming the invoice details."
- "The school board has authorized the new curriculum changes."
- "The bank authorized the transfer after verifying the account details."
Cultural Context
The word 'authorize' has been in use since the late Middle Ages, derived from the Latin word 'auctor' meaning a creator or originator. It has evolved in legal, administrative, and business contexts, where it is commonly used to grant formal permission or power. In modern times, it is widely used in business, government, and technology to describe actions that require official validation or approval.
The Authority of Permission
Story
The Authority of Permission
In a bustling city office, Emily sat at her desk, carefully reading through the latest project proposal. Her role as the department head required her to make tough decisions, and today, the proposal needed her signature for approval. She sighed as she clicked her pen. She had to authorize the proposal before the project could move forward, a responsibility that weighed heavily on her every day. But she understood that without her authorization, nothing could happen. That was the power she wielded. She felt the weight of the authority vested in her position as she glanced over the document again. She had to ensure everything was perfect before granting her approval. "Emily, can you authorize the change in the budget for the new campaign?" a voice interrupted her thoughts. It was Tim, the financial manager. "I can't authorize that without first reviewing the numbers with the team," Emily replied, putting the proposal aside for the moment. She couldn't make any decisions without full authorization from the finance department. In her role, it wasn’t just about giving the green light; it was about ensuring the process was done right. "Once it's verified, I'll authorize the payment." Later, after the review, she signed the form, officially authorizing the release of funds for the campaign. Her decision was final, and the team was thrilled to get the go-ahead. But in the back of her mind, she knew that her responsibility didn’t end with granting permission—she had to oversee the entire project, making sure it stayed within budget and aligned with their goals. As she sat back in her chair, she reflected on how the power to authorize was a constant balancing act. It wasn't just about saying 'yes.' It was about making sure that every decision she authorized moved the company forward while ensuring everything was above board. Emily had authorized a significant change today, but tomorrow, she would do it all over again, a small yet crucial part of the larger machine that kept everything running smoothly.
Related Words
