local authorities

Meaning

1. 1nounpluralBritish

   Official organizations that manage public services in a particular area, such as a town or county.

   Grammar: Used as a plural noun; the singular is 'local authority'. Takes a plural verb: 'The local authorities are responsible.'

   Patterns

   • local authorities in a place
   • local authorities provide something
   • local authorities are responsible for something

   Local authorities are responsible for collecting rubbish and maintaining roads.

   The local authorities in this region have announced new recycling rules.

   Funding for local authorities has been cut in recent years.

Word forms

Common combinations

local authorities provide services

Local authorities provide services such as education and social care.

local authorities in charge

The local authorities in charge of housing have failed to meet demand.

local authorities across the country

Local authorities across the country are facing budget shortfalls.

elected local authorities

Elected local authorities must answer to voters.

Synonyms and how they differ

council

A council is a specific local authority body, often elected, while 'local authorities' is a broader term covering various administrative units.

municipality

A municipality is a city or town with its own government; 'local authorities' can refer to larger regions like counties as well.

local government

Used more in American English; 'local authorities' is the common British term for the organizations themselves.

Opposites

Word family

local authority noun

Singular form; an official organization that manages public services in a local area.

Commonly confused: local authorities or local authority?

Practice

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