powers that be

English

Etymology

After the Authorized Version of the Bible, Romans 13:1: "Let every soul be subject unto the higher powers. For there is no power but of God: The powers that be are ordained of God."

Noun

powers that be (plural only)

1. (idiomatic) The holders of power or the authorities in a given situation, especially as seen as being faceless or unreasonably bureaucratic.
   • 1857, Anthony Trollope, Barchester Towers, ch. 2,

     It appeared as though the hospital at Barchester would fall into abeyance, unless the powers that be should take some steps towards putting it once more into working order.

Translations