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adj Common

authorized

AW-thuh-ryzd

Authorized (adj) means officially permitted or approved. Example: “Only authorized personnel are allowed beyond this point.”

adj
1
Officially permitted or approved.
"Only authorized personnel are allowed beyond this point."

How to Use Authorized

Learner’s notes

In plain EnglishGiven official permission or approval.

UK vs US

Spelled "authorised" in UK English, "authorized" in US English.

Common pairings
authorized personnel authorized dealer authorized user
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Test yourself on “authorized” A quick quiz — meaning, synonyms & usage

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Only _____ personnel are allowed beyond this point.

Related Words

Rhymes for authorized

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Frequently Asked Questions

What does “authorized” mean?

The word “authorized” means officially permitted or approved. In plain terms, given official permission or approval.

How do you pronounce “authorized”?

“Authorized” is pronounced AW-thuh-ryzd (/ˈɔθəɹaɪzd/ in IPA).

How do you use “authorized” in a sentence?

Here is “authorized” used in a sentence: “Only authorized personnel are allowed beyond this point.”

What is the opposite of “authorized”?

The opposite of “authorized” — its antonyms — is unauthorized.

What part of speech is “authorized”?

“Authorized” is an adjective.

Is “authorized” a common word?

“Authorized” is a fairly common word in modern English.

What is the difference between "authorized" and "authorised"?

They are the same word with the same meaning — officially permitted or approved. "Authorized" is the standard American spelling, while "authorised" is the usual British spelling; choose one and stay consistent within a document.

What is the difference between authorized and approved?

"Authorized" means someone has been given official permission or power to do something, while "approved" means something has been formally accepted or agreed to. You authorize a person to act; you approve a plan or a request.

What is the difference between authorized and unauthorized?

"Authorized" means officially permitted or approved, while "unauthorized" means done without that permission. A sign reading "no unauthorized access" means only people with official approval may enter.

What is the difference between authorized and licensed?

"Authorized" means officially permitted or approved to do something, often by a person or organisation in charge, while "licensed" means holding a formal permit granted by an official body. An authorised dealer has a company's permission to sell; a licensed one holds a legal certificate to operate.

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Definitions: FreeDict original editorial