THE AUTHORITIES, the people in charge, the government.
→ power
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the powers that be
The existing ruling authorities (Bible, Romans 13.1)
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Main Entry: ↑power
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the authorities
Origin:
with biblical allusion to Rom. 13:1
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Main Entry: ↑be
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the powers that be
: the people who decide what is allowed or acceptable in a group, organization, etc.
The students wanted to have a big party, but the powers that be didn't approve.
I applied for the job, but I guess the powers that be didn't think I was qualified.
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Main Entry: ↑power
Useful english dictionary. 2012.