"Authorized" refers to getting permission or approval to do a particular task. In cases where it is required to indicate key authorization-related words and phrases, alternatives to "were authorized" may come in handy. These include "sanctioned," "granted permission," "licensed," "approved," "endowed," or "empowered." Depending on the context, other possible synonyms could be "affirmed," "blessed," "commissioned," "mandated," or "validated," among others. Selecting the appropriate synonym for "were authorized" based on the context would help to convey the exact meaning of the text accurately.