Have something on good authority

usgb
idiom

To be certain about something because you trust the person who gave you the information.

I have it on good authority that they are planning to sell the company.
Visual representation of "have something on good authority" - To be certain about something because you trust the person who gave you the information

Often appears as...

  • have it on good authority
  • got it on good authority

Usage tips

Colloquial, Idiomatic

Definition 1 of 1
Visual representation of "have something on good authority"
LampPro Tip 1/3

Trust Implication

This phrase suggests that the speaker has been told by a reliable source, implying credibility.

Illustration for Trust Implication
I have it on good authority that the test results will be released next week.
LampPro Tip 2/3

Not Firsthand

The information isn't acquired firsthand, but from someone believed to be trustworthy.

Illustration for Not Firsthand
They have it on good authority that the event has been postponed.
LampPro Tip 3/3

Not Fact-Checked

Even though the source is trusted, the information should still be considered unconfirmed until verified.

Illustration for Not Fact-Checked
I have it on good authority that our team won, but let's check the official scores to be sure.
Visual representation of the word "Have something on good authority"

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