What is the term for the right to command and make decisions?

What is the term for the right to command and make decisions?

• A. Authority
• B. Power
• C. Influence
• D. Responsibility

Answer: (A)

Authority is the formal right to command and make decisions within a defined area of responsibility, granted by the organization to a role or position. This means the holder can issue orders, approve actions, and allocate resources within their remit, and they are accountable for the outcomes. This is why it fits the prompt: it specifically describes the sanctioned power to direct others and decide on actions. Power is a broader ability to influence or control, which may come from position, expertise, or personal force but isn’t necessarily formal authorization. Influence is about shaping others’ attitudes without formal command, and responsibility is the duty to perform tasks, not the formal right to command.

Authority is the formal right to command and make decisions within a defined area of responsibility, granted by the organization to a role or position. This means the holder can issue orders, approve actions, and allocate resources within their remit, and they are accountable for the outcomes. This is why it fits the prompt: it specifically describes the sanctioned power to direct others and decide on actions. Power is a broader ability to influence or control, which may come from position, expertise, or personal force but isn’t necessarily formal authorization. Influence is about shaping others’ attitudes without formal command, and responsibility is the duty to perform tasks, not the formal right to command.