Having on good authority is a phrase used to indicate that information or knowledge has been obtained or confirmed from a reliable or trustworthy source. When someone states that they have something on good authority, it means that the information they possess is not mere speculation or hearsay, but rather that it has been verified or authenticated by a reputable individual or source.
This phrase implies that the person who possesses this information has access to insiders, experts, or individuals who have direct knowledge or firsthand experience in the matter at hand. The authority in question might be an expert in a particular field, a reliable news source, a trusted individual who is knowledgeable about a specific topic, or someone with close proximity to an event or situation.
When someone states that they have something on good authority, it typically lends credibility and reliability to the information being conveyed. It suggests that the individual is well-informed and has taken the necessary steps to ensure the accuracy of the information they are sharing. This phrase helps to establish the trustworthiness of the source, reassuring the listener or reader that the information can be relied upon.
Overall, having on good authority signifies that the knowledge or information being communicated is based on reliable sources and can be considered trustworthy and factual.