What term describes the authority exercised by a supervisor over subordinates?

• A. Chain of command
• B. Direct supervision
• C. Legal liability
• D. Command responsibility

Answer: (D)

Understanding supervisory authority means recognizing the power a supervisor has to direct and influence subordinates, along with the responsibility that comes with that power. Command responsibility is the term that captures this relationship: the authority to command and the obligation to ensure subordinates carry out their duties, follow policies, and are held accountable for their actions. In practice, a supervisor uses this authority to guide operations, enforce discipline, and address misconduct to maintain order and effectiveness. The other terms describe related but distinct ideas: chain of command refers to how authority is organized and flows through the ranks, direct supervision is the act of supervising directly, and legal liability concerns whether a supervisor or organization can be legally responsible for subordinates’ actions. Command responsibility uniquely combines both the authority to command and the duty to ensure proper conduct under that command.