submit to authority
Citizens are expected to submit to authority for the sake of social order.
People should accept the control of the government to maintain peace.
To accept the control, commands, or decisions of a person or group in power; to comply with established rules or laws.
The defendant refused to submit to authority during the trial.
The accused person did not accept the judge's control.
Often used in legal or political contexts to describe compliance with the state or judicial system.
To yield to the power or influence of a superior in a hierarchical structure.
Employees must submit to authority to ensure the company runs smoothly.
Workers must follow their managers' directions for efficiency.
Implies a voluntary or necessary acceptance of hierarchy.
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Pro Tip
Formal vs. Informal
Use 'submit to authority' in essays, news, or professional settings. In casual conversation, use 'listen to the boss' or 'follow the rules'.
Gold Rule
Preposition Usage
Always use the preposition 'to' after 'submit' when referring to a person or entity (e.g., submit to the judge, not submit the judge).
Word Origin
From Latin 'submittere' (to place under) + 'authority' (power/right to command).
Usage Notes
This phrase is more formal than 'obey'. It often implies a conscious choice to accept power, whereas 'obey' can be more automatic. It is commonly used in discussions about government, law, and organizational hierarchy.