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A2 noun 16 min read

autoridade

Practice it Examples Notes & Tips autoridade in 30 Seconds

Explanation autoridade in your Level:

At the A1 level, the word 'autoridade' is introduced as a basic concept related to people in charge. Think of the police (a polícia) or your parents (os pais). You learn that it is a feminine word ('a autoridade'). At this stage, you use it in very simple sentences to identify who is the boss or who makes the rules. You might hear it in school or on the street. It is important to know that 'autoridade' is a long word, but its meaning is very similar to the English 'authority'. You will mostly see it in the singular to talk about one person's power or in the plural 'as autoridades' to mean the police or the government in a general way. Don't worry about complex legal meanings yet; just focus on the idea of someone having the right to say 'no' or 'yes' to an action. For example, 'A polícia tem autoridade'. This level is about recognition and basic identification of the word in context.

At the A2 level, you begin to use 'autoridade' to describe social relationships and simple hierarchies. You learn to use it with basic verbs like 'ter' (to have) and 'respeitar' (to respect). You understand that a teacher has 'autoridade' in the classroom and a boss has 'autoridade' at work. You also start to see the word used to describe experts—someone who knows a lot about a topic. For instance, 'Minha tia é uma autoridade em culinária'. You should be able to distinguish between 'autoridade' (the concept/person) and 'autoritário' (the adjective for someone too strict). You will also encounter the phrase 'as autoridades' in simple news snippets about local events. Your focus should be on using the feminine gender correctly ('uma autoridade') and applying the word to familiar contexts like family, school, and the workplace. You are moving from just recognizing the word to integrating it into your descriptions of people and their roles.

At the B1 level, you move into more abstract and professional uses of 'autoridade'. You can discuss the 'abuso de autoridade' (abuse of power) and understand the social implications of this concept. You use the word to describe not just people, but also institutions and documents. You might talk about the 'autoridade de um livro' or the 'autoridade de uma lei'. In professional settings, you use phrases like 'autoridade competente' to describe who has the right to sign a document or approve a project. You also begin to use more sophisticated verbs like 'exercer' (to exercise authority) and 'delegar' (to delegate authority). You can explain why someone is an authority in their field using more complex sentence structures. Your understanding of the word now includes the nuances of legitimacy and the difference between having power and having the right to use it. You are comfortable using 'autoridade' in both written and spoken Portuguese in a variety of semi-formal contexts.

At the B2 level, you use 'autoridade' to engage in debates about politics, law, and social theory. You can analyze the 'crise de autoridade' in modern society or the 'princípio da autoridade' in philosophy. You understand the subtle differences between 'autoridade', 'poder', 'influência', and 'prestígio'. You are capable of using the word in formal essays and presentations, employing collocations like 'autoridade constituída' or 'argumento de autoridade'. You can discuss how authority is established, maintained, and lost. In legal contexts, you understand the concept of 'conflito de autoridade' or 'excesso de autoridade'. Your vocabulary is rich enough to use 'autoridade' as a tool for critical thinking. You also recognize regional variations in how authority is perceived and expressed in different Lusophone countries. You can read complex news articles and academic papers where 'autoridade' is a central theme and summarize the main points with precision.

At the C1 level, you have a deep, nuanced mastery of 'autoridade'. You use it to explore complex sociological and philosophical concepts such as 'autoridade carismática' vs. 'autoridade legal-racional' (Weberian concepts). You can write sophisticated critiques of how authority is represented in literature or cinema. You understand the historical evolution of the word from its Latin roots to its modern applications. You use the word with stylistic flair, employing it in metaphors and advanced rhetorical devices. You can navigate high-level legal or administrative discussions where the precise meaning of 'autoridade'—including its jurisdictional and procedural aspects—is crucial. Your use of the word is indistinguishable from that of a highly educated native speaker. You are aware of the subtle connotations 'autoridade' carries in different registers, from the most formal legal decree to the most nuanced intellectual debate. You can also use the word to discuss the 'autoridade moral' of historical figures and its impact on national identity.

At the C2 level, 'autoridade' is a tool you use with absolute precision and creative flexibility. You can engage in professional-level discourse on constitutional law, political science, or advanced linguistics where 'autoridade' is a foundational concept. You appreciate the word's presence in archaic or highly literary texts and can use it to evoke specific historical or cultural atmospheres. You can deconstruct the 'discurso de autoridade' in media and politics, identifying the underlying power structures and linguistic strategies. Your command of the word includes an exhaustive knowledge of its synonyms, antonyms, and rarest collocations. You can write authoritative (pun intended) texts on any subject, effectively becoming an 'autoridade' yourself through your mastery of the language. You can play with the word's meanings in poetry or high-level satire, exploiting every nuance of its definition. At this level, 'autoridade' is not just a vocabulary item; it is a concept you manipulate with ease to express the most complex and subtle ideas imaginable.

Practice it Examples Notes & Tips

autoridade in 30 Seconds

Autoridade means the legitimate power to command or decide. It is a feminine noun used for officials, parents, and experts in any specific field of knowledge.
In Portuguese, 'as autoridades' often refers to the police or government officials. It is essential to use the feminine article 'a' regardless of the person's gender.
The word distinguishes itself from raw power ('poder') by implying legitimacy and respect. It is used in legal, academic, and everyday social contexts across the Lusophone world.
Common expressions include 'abuso de autoridade' (abuse of power) and 'autoridade competente' (the person or body with the legal right to handle a matter).

The Portuguese word autoridade is a multifaceted noun that primarily denotes the power or right to give orders, make decisions, and enforce obedience. Derived from the Latin auctoritas, it carries a weight of legitimacy that distinguishes it from mere physical force or coercion. In the context of Portuguese-speaking societies, from the bustling streets of Lisbon to the vibrant hubs of São Paulo, 'autoridade' is used to describe both the abstract concept of power and the concrete individuals or institutions that wield it. When we speak of 'autoridade,' we are often referring to a social contract where one party is recognized as having the legal or moral standing to lead. This can manifest in various spheres of life, including the judicial system, the family unit, the workplace, and the academic world.

Legal Context: In legal terms, an 'autoridade' refers to a public agent or a government body vested with the power to act on behalf of the state. For example, a judge, a police officer, or a regulatory agency like the 'Autoridade Tributária' (Tax Authority) in Portugal.

Beyond the legalistic definition, the word is frequently employed to describe someone who possesses extensive knowledge or expertise in a specific field. In this sense, an 'autoridade' is a person whose opinions or works are accepted as final or highly influential. If a professor has spent forty years studying the migratory patterns of birds in the Azores, they are considered an 'autoridade no assunto' (an authority on the subject). This usage highlights that authority can be earned through merit and study, not just granted by a title or a badge.

O diretor da escola exerce a sua autoridade com justiça e equilíbrio, garantindo o respeito entre todos os alunos.

Social Dynamics: In family and social structures, 'autoridade' defines the hierarchy. Parents are the 'autoridade' within the home, responsible for the guidance and discipline of their children. However, modern usage often emphasizes 'autoridade' over 'autoritarismo' (authoritarianism), suggesting a preference for leadership based on respect rather than fear.

In everyday conversation, you might hear the word used in the plural—'as autoridades'—to refer collectively to the police or the government. If there is an accident on the road, someone might say, 'As autoridades já foram chamadas' (The authorities have already been called). This collective use is very common in news reports and formal announcements. Furthermore, the word appears in common expressions like 'abuso de autoridade' (abuse of power), which is a significant topic in political and social discourse in Portuguese-speaking countries, reflecting a historical sensitivity to the balance of power.

A autoridade sanitária inspecionou o restaurante para garantir que as normas de higiene fossem cumpridas.

Academic and Intellectual Use: In academic writing, 'autoridade' is often linked to the credibility of sources. A 'argumento de autoridade' is a rhetorical device where a claim is supported by the prestige of a person rather than direct evidence, often analyzed in logic and philosophy classes.

A cientista é uma autoridade mundial em energias renováveis, tendo publicado diversos livros sobre o tema.

To wrap up this section, understanding 'autoridade' is about more than just knowing a translation for 'authority.' it is about recognizing the cultural importance of hierarchy, expertise, and the legal framework that governs Lusophone societies. Whether you are dealing with a 'figura de autoridade' in a professional setting or citing an 'autoridade' in an essay, the word carries a sense of gravity and responsibility that is essential for any A2 learner to grasp as they move toward intermediate fluency.

Ninguém está acima da autoridade da lei, independentemente da sua posição social ou riqueza.

Using autoridade correctly in Portuguese requires attention to gender, number, and the specific verbs that typically accompany it. As a feminine noun, it is always preceded by feminine articles (a, as, uma, umas) and modified by feminine adjectives. For example, you would say 'a autoridade suprema' (the supreme authority) or 'uma autoridade reconhecida' (a recognized authority). Even if you are referring to a group of men who are authorities, the word itself remains feminine.

Common Verbs with Autoridade: The most common verbs used with this noun are 'exercer' (to exercise), 'desafiar' (to challenge), 'reconhecer' (to recognize), 'ter' (to have), and 'perder' (to lose). For instance, 'O juiz exerce a sua autoridade no tribunal' (The judge exercises his authority in court).

When discussing expertise, the preposition 'em' or 'sobre' is often used. You can be an 'autoridade em medicina' (authority in medicine) or have 'autoridade sobre o assunto' (authority over the subject). It is important to note that when referring to people in power collectively, we almost always use the plural form: 'as autoridades'. This is the equivalent of saying 'the police' or 'the government officials' in English.

Você precisa de uma autorização da autoridade competente antes de começar a construção da casa.

Sentence Structure: Subject vs. Object: In a sentence, 'autoridade' can act as the subject: 'A autoridade do pai é inquestionável'. Or it can act as the direct object: 'O povo desafiou a autoridade do ditador'. Understanding these placements helps in constructing more complex thoughts.

One nuance to keep in mind is the difference between 'ter autoridade' and 'ser uma autoridade'. 'Ter autoridade' usually refers to having the power to command ('O general tem autoridade sobre os soldados'), while 'ser uma autoridade' refers to being an expert ('Ela é uma autoridade em história da arte'). This distinction is crucial for clear communication in professional and academic settings.

In formal documents, you will often see the phrase 'autoridade competente'. This refers specifically to the person or entity that has the legal jurisdiction to handle a particular matter. If you are applying for a visa, the consulate is the 'autoridade competente'. If you are reporting a crime, the police are the 'autoridade competente'. Using this phrase correctly adds a level of sophistication to your Portuguese, especially in bureaucratic or business contexts.

Muitos jovens hoje em dia tendem a questionar a autoridade tradicional estabelecida pelos seus antepassados.

Prepositional Usage: 'Autoridade para' is used when describing the power to perform an action: 'Ele não tem autoridade para assinar este contrato' (He does not have the authority to sign this contract).

A professora falou com tanta autoridade que todos os alunos ficaram em silêncio imediato.

Finally, consider the tone. Using 'autoridade' can sound very formal. In informal situations, people might use words like 'mando' or 'poder', but 'autoridade' remains the standard for expressing legitimate control. Whether you are writing a formal letter or describing a scene in a story, mastering the syntax of 'autoridade' will allow you to describe power dynamics with precision and cultural accuracy.

O governo central delegou autoridade às regiões locais para gerirem os seus próprios orçamentos de saúde.

The word autoridade is ubiquitous in Portuguese daily life, though its frequency varies depending on the setting. One of the most common places you will encounter it is in the news. Journalists frequently use the term 'as autoridades' when reporting on police investigations, health regulations, or government decisions. For instance, during a public health crisis, news anchors will often say, 'As autoridades de saúde recomendam o uso de máscaras,' highlighting the official nature of the advice.

In the Workplace: In a corporate or administrative environment, the word is used to define hierarchy. You might hear a manager say, 'Eu não tenho autoridade para aprovar esse aumento salarial,' indicating that the decision lies further up the chain of command. It is a word that clarifies boundaries and responsibilities.

In academic and intellectual circles, 'autoridade' is heard during lectures, seminars, and debates. When a professor introduces a guest speaker, they might describe them as a 'grande autoridade na área de biotecnologia.' Here, the word is a badge of honor, signifying deep respect for the person's intellectual contributions. Students are also taught to cite 'autoridades' in their research papers to strengthen their arguments, making the word a staple of university life.

As autoridades locais decidiram fechar o parque durante o festival para garantir a segurança pública.

Legal and Bureaucratic Encounters: If you ever find yourself dealing with Portuguese or Brazilian bureaucracy—whether it's renewing a residency permit or registering a business—you will see 'autoridade' on forms and official signs. Phrases like 'Sob a autoridade de...' (Under the authority of...) are standard in legal documents.

Interestingly, you also hear 'autoridade' in more domestic or informal settings, though often with a slightly different connotation. A parent might be told by a teacher, 'Você precisa manter a sua autoridade em casa,' suggesting that the parent needs to be more firm with their child. In this context, it is about the psychological and social role of a leader within a small group. Even in sports, a referee is the 'autoridade máxima' on the field, and commentators will often discuss whether a referee is 'losing his authority' over the players during a heated match.

Furthermore, in religious contexts, 'autoridade' is used to describe the spiritual power of leaders or the sacred texts themselves. A priest or pastor might speak about 'a autoridade das Escrituras' (the authority of the Scriptures). This demonstrates how the word transcends the secular world and touches upon the deepest beliefs and values of the culture. Whether it's the law of the land, the expertise of a scientist, or the rules of a game, 'autoridade' is the word that binds these concepts together in the Portuguese-speaking mind.

A autoridade portuária controlou a entrada de todos os navios estrangeiros durante a tempestade.

Media and Literature: In literature, especially in historical novels or political thrillers, 'autoridade' is a central theme. Characters often struggle against or for authority, making the word a key term for understanding the narrative arcs of many Portuguese-language masterpieces.

In summary, 'autoridade' is not just a word for the elite; it is a word that everyone uses to navigate the world. It provides a framework for understanding who is in charge, why they are in charge, and what the limits of that power are. From the 'autoridade de trânsito' directing cars to the 'autoridade moral' of a community leader, the word is an essential part of the social fabric in every Portuguese-speaking country.

Ele sempre fala com uma autoridade natural que faz com que todos confiem nas suas decisões.

For English speakers learning Portuguese, the word autoridade seems like a straightforward cognate, but several pitfalls can lead to awkward or incorrect usage. The most frequent mistake involves gender. Because many nouns ending in '-ade' are feminine (like 'cidade', 'felicidade', 'liberdade'), 'autoridade' is also feminine. However, learners often mistakenly use the masculine article 'o' when referring to a male authority figure. You must say 'Ele é uma autoridade,' never 'Ele é um autoridade.'

Confusion with 'Autoritarismo': Another common error is confusing 'autoridade' (legitimate power or expertise) with 'autoritarismo' (authoritarianism or the abuse of power). While authority is generally seen as necessary for social order, 'autoritarismo' is a negative trait. Calling a strict teacher 'uma autoridade' is a compliment; calling them 'autoritária' (the adjective) or accusing them of 'autoritarismo' is a criticism.

Prepositional errors are also quite common. In English, we might say someone is an 'authority on' a subject. In Portuguese, while 'sobre' (on) is acceptable, the more natural and common preposition is 'em'. Saying 'uma autoridade em economia' is more idiomatic than 'uma autoridade sobre economia'. Additionally, when talking about having power over someone, the preposition 'sobre' is essential: 'ter autoridade sobre os funcionários'. Using 'em' in this context would be incorrect.

Errado: O juiz é um autoridade no caso.
Correto: O juiz é uma autoridade no caso.

The 'False Friend' Trap: While 'autoridade' is a true cognate, its plural form 'as autoridades' is much more frequently used in Portuguese to mean 'the police' than 'the authorities' is used in casual English. English speakers might just say 'the police' or 'the cops', whereas Portuguese speakers often prefer the more formal 'as autoridades' in various contexts.

Learners also struggle with the verb 'mandar'. While 'mandar' means to command, it is much more informal and can sometimes sound rude. Using the noun 'autoridade' with the verb 'exercer' (to exercise) is the proper way to describe the formal use of power. For example, 'Ele gosta de mandar em todos' (He likes to boss everyone around) is very different from 'Ele exerce a sua autoridade de forma justa' (He exercises his authority fairly).

Finally, be careful with the word 'authoritarian'. In Portuguese, 'autoritário' is the adjective, and it is almost always negative. If you want to say someone is a strong leader, use 'líder forte' or 'pessoa de autoridade'. If you call them 'autoritário', you are implying they are bossy, tyrannical, or unwilling to listen to others. This distinction is vital for maintaining appropriate social relations and not accidentally offending someone you respect.

Errado: Ele tem autoridade de biologia.
Correto: Ele é uma autoridade em biologia.

Contextual Misuse: Avoid using 'autoridade' when you simply mean 'permission'. While related, 'permissão' or 'autorização' are more specific. 'Eu tenho autoridade para entrar' implies you have the right because of who you are; 'Eu tenho autorização para entrar' means someone gave you a pass.

As autoridades competentes estão a investigar o incidente ocorrido ontem à noite.

By avoiding these common mistakes—especially the gender error and the confusion with authoritarianism—you will speak Portuguese more naturally and accurately. Always remember: 'autoridade' is a power you have or an expert you are, and it always takes the feminine form regardless of the person's gender.

While autoridade is a powerful word, Portuguese offers several alternatives depending on the specific nuance you want to convey. Understanding these synonyms and related terms will help you expand your vocabulary and speak with greater precision. The most common synonym is 'poder' (power), but they are not always interchangeable. 'Poder' is more general and can refer to physical strength, political capacity, or even the ability to do something ('Eu posso'). 'Autoridade' is 'poder' that is recognized as legitimate.

Autoridade vs. Poder: Autoridade: Legitimate, institutionalized, or expertise-based power.
Poder: The raw ability to influence or control, whether legitimate or not.

Another important word is 'comando' (command). This is often used in military or technical contexts. A captain has the 'comando' of a ship. It implies active direction and leadership in a specific operation. Similarly, 'domínio' (mastery or domain) is used when someone has complete control over a subject or a territory. If you have 'domínio' of the Portuguese language, you have mastered it. While an 'autoridade' knows a lot, someone with 'domínio' can use that knowledge flawlessly.

O professor tem total domínio sobre a matéria, mas raramente usa a sua autoridade para punir os alunos.

Influence and Prestige: Influência: The ability to affect others' decisions without formal power.
Prestígio: Respect and admiration arising from achievements or quality.

If you are talking about someone who is an expert, you might use 'especialista' (specialist) or 'perito' (expert/expert witness). An 'especialista' is someone who focuses on a specific area, while an 'autoridade' is someone whose expertise is so great that they are a reference for others. In a legal case, a 'perito' might be called to give an 'argumento de autoridade' based on their technical findings. These words are more common in professional settings where 'autoridade' might sound too grand.

In political contexts, 'soberania' (sovereignty) is a related but much more intense word. It refers to the supreme authority of a state or a people. While a local mayor has 'autoridade,' only the state has 'soberania.' On the flip side, 'autonomia' (autonomy) is the right to self-govern. A region might have 'autonomia' from the central 'autoridade.' These distinctions are key for understanding political news in the Lusophone world.

A influência do artista é maior do que a sua autoridade formal dentro da academia.

Formal vs. Informal Alternatives: Formal: Magistratura, Jurisdição, Competência.
Informal: Mando, Chefia, Moral (as in 'Ele tem moral com o grupo').

Finally, consider the word 'competência'. In Portuguese, 'competência' means both 'competence' (the ability to do something well) and 'legal authority' (the right to handle a case). This is a common source of confusion. When a lawyer says 'Este tribunal não tem competência para este caso,' they mean the court doesn't have the legal authority/jurisdiction, not that the judges are unskilled. This overlaps heavily with the concept of 'autoridade competente'.

O novo gerente assumiu o comando da equipe com muita autoridade e confiança.

How Formal Is It?

Fun Fact

The word 'autor' (author) and 'autoridade' share the same root because, in ancient times, the person who created something was seen as the primary authority over it.

Pronunciation Guide

UK /aw.tu.ɾi.ˈda.ðɨ/

US /aw.tu.ɾi.ˈda.dʒi/

The primary stress is on the penultimate syllable 'da'.

Rhymes With

cidade felicidade liberdade vontade verdade amizade unidade sociedade

Common Errors

Pronouncing 'au' as a single vowel like in 'law'. It must be a diphthong.
Misplacing the stress on the last syllable 'de'.
Making the 't' sound like a 'th' in English.
Skipping the 'i' in the middle (saying 'autor-dade').
Using a masculine ending like 'autoridado' (this word does not exist).

Difficulty Rating

Reading 2/5

Easy to recognize due to the English cognate 'authority'.

Writing 3/5

Requires remembering the feminine gender and the '-ade' suffix.

Speaking 3/5

The 'au' diphthong and the final 'de' (Brazil vs Portugal) take practice.

Listening 2/5

Clear pronunciation in most dialects, easily distinguishable.

What to Learn Next

Prerequisites

poder lei pessoa saber respeito

Learn Next

autorizar legitimidade hierarquia governo jurisdição

Advanced

soberania hegemonia autocracia epistemologia magistratura

Grammar to Know

Nouns ending in -dade are almost always feminine.

A autoridade, a cidade, a verdade.

The preposition 'em' is used for expertise.

Autoridade em biologia.

The preposition 'sobre' is used for control over others.

Autoridade sobre os alunos.

Indefinite articles are required when identifying someone's role as an expert.

Ele é uma autoridade (not: Ele é autoridade).

Pluralization of -dade nouns simply adds -s.

Uma autoridade, duas autoridades.

Examples by Level

A polícia é uma autoridade.

The police is an authority.

Note the feminine article 'a' before 'autoridade'.

Meus pais têm autoridade em casa.

My parents have authority at home.

The verb 'ter' (to have) is used here in the plural 'têm'.

O professor tem autoridade na sala.

The teacher has authority in the room.

Common use of 'autoridade' in a school context.

Quem é a autoridade aqui?

Who is the authority here?

A simple question using the verb 'ser'.

As autoridades chegaram cedo.

The authorities arrived early.

Plural form 'as autoridades' often refers to the police.

Eu respeito a sua autoridade.

I respect your authority.

Direct object use with the verb 'respeitar'.

Ela é uma autoridade no hospital.

She is an authority in the hospital.

Even for a woman, we use 'uma autoridade'.

Não desafie a autoridade.

Do not challenge the authority.

Imperative form of the verb 'desafiar'.

O diretor exerce a sua autoridade com calma.

The director exercises his authority calmly.

The verb 'exercer' is very common with 'autoridade'.

Ela é uma autoridade em música clássica.

She is an authority on classical music.

Using 'em' to specify the field of expertise.

As autoridades de saúde deram novas instruções.

The health authorities gave new instructions.

Compound subject 'As autoridades de saúde'.

Ele perdeu a autoridade perante os filhos.

He lost authority before his children.

The verb 'perder' indicates a loss of status.

Precisamos falar com a autoridade local.

We need to speak with the local authority.

Adjective 'local' modifying 'autoridade'.

O juiz tem a autoridade final no caso.

The judge has the final authority in the case.

Adjective 'final' emphasizing the level of power.

Ela fala com muita autoridade sobre o assunto.

She speaks with a lot of authority on the subject.

Using 'com' to describe the manner of speaking.

A autoridade do governo foi questionada.

The government's authority was questioned.

Passive voice 'foi questionada'.

O excesso de autoridade pode causar revolta.

Excessive authority can cause revolt.

Using 'excesso de' to discuss a negative aspect.

O documento deve ser assinado pela autoridade competente.

The document must be signed by the competent authority.

The set phrase 'autoridade competente'.

Ele não tem autoridade para tomar essa decisão sozinho.

He doesn't have the authority to make that decision alone.

'Autoridade para' followed by an infinitive verb.

A professora é uma autoridade reconhecida internacionalmente.

The professor is an internationally recognized authority.

Adverb 'internacionalmente' modifying the adjective 'reconhecida'.

As autoridades fiscais estão a auditar a empresa.

The tax authorities are auditing the company.

Specific use: 'autoridades fiscais'.

A criança desafiou a autoridade da mãe no supermercado.

The child challenged the mother's authority in the supermarket.

Using 'desafiar' in a social/family context.

O projeto foi aprovado pela autoridade ambiental.

The project was approved by the environmental authority.

Specific use: 'autoridade ambiental'.

Ela exerce a sua autoridade de forma muito democrática.

She exercises her authority in a very democratic way.

Describing the style of authority.

O argumento de autoridade nem sempre é válido na lógica.

The argument from authority is not always valid in logic.

Philosophical term: 'argumento de autoridade'.

A legitimidade da sua autoridade foi posta em causa.

The legitimacy of his authority was called into question.

Using 'legitimidade' to discuss the basis of power.

As autoridades monetárias decidiram baixar a taxa de juro.

The monetary authorities decided to lower the interest rate.

Specific use: 'autoridades monetárias'.

Houve um conflito de autoridade entre os dois departamentos.

There was a conflict of authority between the two departments.

'Conflito de autoridade' refers to overlapping jurisdictions.

O autor é uma autoridade incontestável na literatura medieval.

The author is an unquestionable authority on medieval literature.

Adjective 'incontestável' for strong emphasis.

A polícia agiu com abuso de autoridade durante a manifestação.

The police acted with abuse of authority during the demonstration.

Common legal/social phrase: 'abuso de autoridade'.

É necessário respeitar a autoridade constituída para manter a ordem.

It is necessary to respect the established authority to maintain order.

Formal term: 'autoridade constituída'.

Ela delegou autoridade aos seus subordinados para agilizar o processo.

She delegated authority to her subordinates to speed up the process.

The verb 'delegar' is crucial for B2 level management talk.

A erosão da autoridade tradicional é um fenómeno sociológico complexo.

The erosion of traditional authority is a complex sociological phenomenon.

Abstract concept: 'erosão da autoridade'.

O texto emana uma autoridade que cativa o leitor desde a primeira página.

The text exudes an authority that captivates the reader from the first page.

Metaphorical use of 'autoridade' in literary criticism.

A autoridade moral do líder espiritual transcende as fronteiras políticas.

The spiritual leader's moral authority transcends political borders.

Specific concept: 'autoridade moral'.

O tribunal declinou a sua competência, alegando falta de autoridade jurisdicional.

The court declined its competence, alleging a lack of jurisdictional authority.

Highly technical legal term: 'autoridade jurisdicional'.

A obra de Saramago desafia a autoridade das narrativas históricas oficiais.

Saramago's work challenges the authority of official historical narratives.

Using 'autoridade' to discuss historiography and literature.

A descentralização visa reduzir a autoridade excessiva do estado central.

Decentralization aims to reduce the excessive authority of the central state.

Political science context: 'descentralização'.

O cientista falou com a autoridade de quem dedicou a vida à investigação.

The scientist spoke with the authority of someone who dedicated their life to research.

Descriptive phrase 'a autoridade de quem...'.

A autoridade da lei deve ser aplicada de forma equânime a todos os cidadãos.

The authority of the law must be applied equally to all citizens.

Using the adjective 'equânime' (equitable).

A autoridade carismática, segundo Weber, baseia-se na devoção ao heroísmo de um indivíduo.

Charismatic authority, according to Weber, is based on devotion to an individual's heroism.

Sociological theory: 'autoridade carismática'.

O vácuo de autoridade deixado pela queda do regime mergulhou o país no caos.

The vacuum of authority left by the regime's fall plunged the country into chaos.

Metaphorical phrase: 'vácuo de autoridade'.

A autoridade epistemológica da ciência é frequentemente posta em xeque pelo negacionismo.

The epistemological authority of science is often challenged by denialism.

Advanced philosophical term: 'autoridade epistemológica'.

O soberano exercia uma autoridade absoluta, sem qualquer tipo de contrapoder.

The sovereign exercised absolute authority, without any kind of counter-power.

Historical/Political term: 'autoridade absoluta'.

A autoridade do narrador é subvertida nesta obra pós-moderna através da metaficção.

The narrator's authority is subverted in this postmodern work through metafiction.

Literary theory context: 'autoridade do narrador'.

As autoridades consulares devem zelar pela proteção dos cidadãos no estrangeiro.

Consular authorities must ensure the protection of citizens abroad.

Diplomatic term: 'autoridades consulares'.

A autoridade da tradição oral é fundamental para a preservação das culturas indígenas.

The authority of oral tradition is fundamental to the preservation of indigenous cultures.

Anthropological context: 'autoridade da tradição oral'.

O preceito jurídico invocado carecia de autoridade vinculativa perante o tribunal superior.

The legal precept invoked lacked binding authority before the superior court.

Highly specialized legal term: 'autoridade vinculativa'.

Common Collocations

Abuso de autoridade

Autoridade competente

Figura de autoridade

Exercer autoridade

Princípio da autoridade

Autoridade máxima

Autoridade moral

Autoridade tributária

Desafiar a autoridade

Sob a autoridade de

Common Phrases

Com que autoridade?

— A rhetorical or direct question asking by what right someone is doing something.

Com que autoridade você entra na minha casa sem convite?

As autoridades

— A general term for the police or the government officials.

As autoridades estão a investigar o desaparecimento.

Ter autoridade

— To possess the power or right to command.

Ela tem autoridade para aprovar os gastos.

Perder a autoridade

— To no longer be respected or obeyed by subordinates.

O treinador perdeu a autoridade após a derrota.

Argumento de autoridade

— A logical fallacy or rhetorical device using an expert's opinion as proof.

Não use apenas o argumento de autoridade; mostre os dados.

Autoridade de trânsito

— The officials responsible for regulating road traffic.

A autoridade de trânsito multou o motorista.

Sem autoridade

— Lacking the power or permission to act.

Estou sem autoridade para mudar as regras agora.

Autoridade constituída

— The legally established and recognized government or leadership.

Devemos respeitar a autoridade constituída do país.

Uma autoridade no assunto

— Someone who is a leading expert in a specific field.

O meu avô é uma autoridade no assunto da pesca.

Dar autoridade

— To empower someone or give them the right to act.

O diretor deu autoridade ao secretário para assinar papéis.

Often Confused With

autoridade vs Autorização

Autorização is the act of giving permission; autoridade is the power to give that permission.

autoridade vs Autoritarismo

Autoritarismo is the negative practice of absolute power; autoridade is the legitimate right to power.

autoridade vs Autor

While related, an 'autor' is a creator of a work, while an 'autoridade' is someone with power or expertise.

Idioms & Expressions

"Ter a faca e o queijo na mão"

— To have full authority and the means to resolve a situation.

O gerente tem a faca e o queijo na mão para decidir o futuro da empresa.

Informal

"Mandar chuva e sol"

— To have absolute authority over a place or group (often used in Brazil).

Naquela vila, o coronel manda chuva e sol.

Colloquial

"Bater o martelo"

— To use one's authority to make a final decision.

A diretora bateu o martelo e escolheu o novo logo.

Informal

"Quem manda aqui sou eu"

— A direct assertion of authority, often in a confrontational way.

Pare de reclamar, quem manda aqui sou eu!

Informal/Aggressive

"Cair do pedestal"

— To lose authority or prestige suddenly.

Depois do escândalo, o político caiu do pedestal.

Informal

"Falar de cadeira"

— To speak with the authority of someone who knows a topic deeply.

Ele pode falar de cadeira sobre a crise, pois viveu tudo aquilo.

Informal/Idiomatic

"Dar as cartas"

— To be the one in charge or in authority.

Nesta negociação, é a nossa empresa que dá as cartas.

Informal

"Ser o braço direito"

— To be the person who helps the authority figure the most.

Ela é o braço direito da autoridade máxima do banco.

Informal

"Canto de sereia"

— An authoritative but deceptive speech (often used for leaders).

Não acredite no canto de sereia daquela autoridade política.

Literary

"Pôr ordem na casa"

— To assert authority to fix a chaotic situation.

O novo interventor chegou para pôr ordem na casa.

Informal

Easily Confused

autoridade vs Poder

Both relate to control.

Poder is the raw ability to do something; autoridade is the socially or legally recognized right to do it.

O ladrão tem o poder da arma, mas o policial tem a autoridade da lei.

autoridade vs Influência

Both involve affecting others.

Influência is persuasive and informal; autoridade is structural and formal.

O avô tem influência na família, mas o pai tem a autoridade.

autoridade vs Especialista

Both refer to experts.

An especialista is someone with technical knowledge; an autoridade is an especialista whose word is considered definitive.

Ele é um especialista em carros, mas ela é a maior autoridade em motores antigos.

autoridade vs Comando

Both involve leading.

Comando is the active role of leading a mission; autoridade is the underlying right to lead.

Ele perdeu o comando do navio, mas ainda mantém sua autoridade como capitão.

autoridade vs Liderança

Both relate to being a boss.

Liderança is an interpersonal skill; autoridade is a formal position.

Muitas pessoas em cargos de autoridade não possuem liderança.

Sentence Patterns

A [Pessoa] é uma autoridade.

A mãe é uma autoridade.

Ele/Ela tem autoridade em [Assunto].

Ele tem autoridade em culinária.

É preciso respeitar a autoridade de [Pessoa/Órgão].

É preciso respeitar a autoridade do juiz.

O [Evento] foi um claro abuso de autoridade.

A prisão foi um claro abuso de autoridade.

A autoridade de [Pessoa] advém do seu [Qualidade].

A autoridade de Gandhi advém do seu exemplo moral.

Sob a égide da autoridade [Adjetivo], o país...

Sob a égide da autoridade monárquica, o país prosperou.

As autoridades estão a [Verbo].

As autoridades estão a investigar.

Não tenho autoridade para [Verbo].

Não tenho autoridade para abrir o cofre.

Word Family

Nouns

autoritarismo (authoritarianism)

autorização (authorization)

autor (author/creator)

Verbs

autorizar (to authorize)

autorar (to write/create - less common)

Adjectives

autoritário (authoritarian)

autorizado (authorized)

autoritativa (authoritative)

poder

comando

hierarquia

legitimidade

jurisdição

How to Use It

frequency

Very common in formal, legal, academic, and news contexts. Moderately common in daily speech.

Common Mistakes

O autoridade → A autoridade
Nouns ending in -dade are feminine. The article must reflect this.
Ele é um autoridade no assunto. → Ele é uma autoridade no assunto.
Even for males, the indefinite article must be feminine ('uma').
Autoridade sobre biologia. → Autoridade em biologia.
While 'sobre' is used in English ('on'), 'em' is the standard preposition in Portuguese for expertise.
Ele é muito autoridade. → Ele é muito autoritário.
You cannot use the noun 'autoridade' as an adjective. Use 'autoritário' instead.
Eu não tenho autoridade de fazer isso. → Eu não tenho autoridade para fazer isso.
The correct preposition to use before a verb is 'para'.

Tips

Always Feminine

Never use 'o autoridade'. It is always 'a autoridade'. This is a common mistake for English speakers.

Use 'Em' for Subjects

When saying someone is an authority on a subject, 'em' is your best friend. 'Autoridade em história'.

Respect the Title

In Portuguese-speaking countries, people with 'autoridade' are often addressed by titles like 'Doutor' or 'Professor'.

The Plural Power

Use 'as autoridades' if you want to sound like a native news anchor when talking about the police.

Pair with 'Exercer'

The verb 'exercer' (to exercise) is the most elegant way to describe someone using their authority.

Authority vs. Authoritarian

Use 'autoridade' for the role and 'autoritário' only if you are criticizing someone's behavior.

Legal Precision

In business, 'autoridade competente' is the standard phrase for the person who can sign off on things.

Mind the Diphthong

The 'au' at the start of 'autoridade' should sound like the 'ou' in 'house'. Don't flatten it.

Cognate Advantage

Use your knowledge of English to remember the meaning, but use your knowledge of Portuguese to fix the grammar.

Moral Authority

Use 'autoridade moral' when talking about someone who is respected because of their character, not their job.

Memorize It

Mnemonic

Think of an AUTHOR (autor) who has the power over their story. They are the AUTOR-IDADE (the age/state of being an author) of their world.

Visual Association

Imagine a judge with a gavel in one hand and a thick book of laws in the other, standing on a pedestal labeled 'A Autoridade'.

Word Web

Polícia Juiz Lei Poder Governo Especialista Respeito Ordem

Challenge

Write three sentences about who has 'autoridade' in your life: one for your home, one for your job, and one for your hobby.

Word Origin

Derived from the Latin 'auctoritas', which stems from 'auctor' (author, creator, or increaser). It originally referred to the power of a person to give legal force to something or to influence others through prestige.

Original meaning: The quality of being an 'auctor'—someone who produces, originates, or promotes something.

Romance (Latinate)

Cultural Context

Be careful when using 'autoritário' (authoritarian) as it is a very strong insult in modern Portuguese democratic discourse.

English speakers often use 'authority' to mean 'permission' or 'the right to do something'. In Portuguese, 'autoridade' is more about the status or the person/body itself.

The book 'A Autoridade' by various political theorists. The legal concept of 'Abuso de Autoridade' in the Brazilian Penal Code. The 'Autoridade Nacional de Emergência e Proteção Civil' in Portugal.

Practice in Real Life

Real-World Contexts

At the Police Station

Onde está a autoridade?
Quero falar com a autoridade responsável.
As autoridades estão a chegar.
Identifique a autoridade.

In a University

Ela é uma autoridade em física.
Cite uma autoridade no seu trabalho.
O reitor é a autoridade máxima.
Argumento de autoridade.

At Home

Respeite a autoridade dos seus pais.
Quem tem a autoridade aqui?
Perdi a minha autoridade com eles.
Figura de autoridade paterna.

In Business

Delegar autoridade para a equipe.
Abuso de autoridade no escritório.
Autoridade para assinar contratos.
Linha de autoridade clara.

In the News

As autoridades sanitárias alertam.
Conflito entre as autoridades.
Autoridade tributária e aduaneira.
Decisão da autoridade local.

Conversation Starters

"Quem você considera a maior autoridade moral no mundo hoje?"

"Você acha que os pais estão perdendo a autoridade sobre os filhos?"

"Em qual assunto você gostaria de ser uma autoridade mundial?"

"Como você reage quando alguém exerce autoridade de forma injusta?"

"Qual é a autoridade mais importante na sua profissão?"

Journal Prompts

Descreva um momento em que você teve que exercer autoridade sobre um grupo. Como você se sentiu?

Reflita sobre a diferença entre ter poder e ter autoridade. Qual é mais importante para um líder?

Escreva sobre uma autoridade em sua vida que você respeita profundamente e por quê.

Como a autoridade mudou na nossa sociedade nos últimos cinquenta anos?

Imagine um mundo sem qualquer tipo de autoridade. Como seria o dia a dia?

Frequently Asked Questions

10 questions

Yes, 'autoridade' is always a feminine noun. Even if you are talking about a man who is an authority, you must say 'Ele é uma autoridade'. The gender of the noun does not change based on the person it refers to.

Authority (autoridade) is legitimate power, usually granted by law, expertise, or social agreement. Power (poder) is the general ability to influence or force others. For example, a king has authority, but a rebel might have the power to overthrow him.

Yes, in the plural form 'as autoridades' is a very common way to refer to the police or government officials collectively, especially in formal news reports or legal contexts.

In Portuguese, you say 'uma autoridade em' or 'uma autoridade sobre'. For example, 'uma autoridade em biologia'. 'Em' is generally more common and idiomatic.

No. 'Autoridade' is the noun (authority), while 'autoritário' is an adjective (authoritarian). 'Autoritário' usually has a negative connotation, implying someone who is too strict or bossy.

It means 'abuse of power' or 'abuse of authority'. It is a legal term used when someone in a position of power uses it unfairly or illegally to harm others.

Yes, metaphorically. You can say 'Este livro é uma autoridade no assunto', meaning the book is the most respected source of information on that topic.

In Portugal, the final 'e' is almost silent. In Brazil, the 'de' sounds like 'dji'. Both are correct in their respective regions.

It is the specific person or organization that has the legal right to handle a certain task. For example, the DMV is the 'autoridade competente' for driver's licenses.

Use 'jurisdição' when you want to talk about the specific area or scope (geographical or legal) where the authority applies. For example, 'O juiz não tem autoridade fora da sua jurisdição'.