authorizeauthorise

Authorize and authorise are alternative spellings of the same verb. The difference lies in regional preference, with "authorize" being the predominant spelling in American English and "authorise" being standard in British English and other Commonwealth countries. The verb itself refers to the act of giving official permission or approval for something, or granting power or authority to someone. This can manifest in various contexts, such as a government authorizing a new policy, a manager authorizing an expense, or a parent authorizing a child to do a certain activity. The core meaning remains consistent across both spellings: to empower, permit, or sanction. When writing, the choice between "authorize" and "authorise" typically depends on the target audience or the style guide being followed. Both forms are grammatically correct and understood by speakers of English worldwide. The word derives from the Latin "auctorizare," meaning to increase, originate, or empower. The verb signifies bestowing legitimacy or official standing upon an action or individual.