Authority vs. Ruler

Authority vs. Ruler — Is There a Difference?
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Difference Between Authority and Ruler

Authoritynoun

(uncountable) The power to enforce rules or give orders.

I have the authority to penalise the staff in my department, but not the authority to sack them.She lost all her respect and authority after turning up drunk to the meeting.Respect my authority!

Rulernoun

A (usually rigid), flat, rectangular measuring or drawing device with graduations in units of measurement; a straightedge with markings.

Authoritynoun

(used in singular or plural form) Persons in command; specifically, government.

Rulernoun

A person who rules or governs; someone or something that exercises dominion or controlling power over others.

Authoritynoun

(countable) A person accepted as a source of reliable information on a subject.

the world's foremost authority on orangutans

Rulerverb

(transitive) To beat with a ruler (as a traditional school punishment).

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Authoritynoun

Government-owned agency which runs a revenue-generating activity.

New York Port Authority

Rulernoun

measuring stick consisting of a strip of wood or metal or plastic with a straight edge that is used for drawing straight lines and measuring lengths

Authoritynoun

the power or right to give orders or make decisions;

he has the authority to issue warrantsdeputies are given authorization to make arrests

Rulernoun

a person who rules or commands;

swayer of the universe

Authoritynoun

(usually plural) persons who exercise (administrative) control over others;

the authorities have issued a curfew

Authoritynoun

an expert whose views are taken as definitive;

he is an authority on corporate law
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Authoritynoun

freedom from doubt; belief in yourself and your abilities;

his assurance in his superiority did not make him popularafter that failure he lost his confidenceshe spoke with authority

Authoritynoun

an administrative unit of government;

the Central Intelligence Agencythe Census BureauOffice of Management and BudgetTennessee Valley Authority

Authoritynoun

official permission or approval;

authority for the program was renewed several times

Authoritynoun

an authoritative written work;

this book is the final authority on the life of Milton