Synonym Chooser

How does the adjective authentic contrast with its synonyms?

The words bona fide and genuine are common synonyms of authentic. While all three words mean "being actually and exactly what is claimed," authentic implies being fully trustworthy as according with fact; it can also stress painstaking or faithful imitation of an original.

an authentic account of the perilous journey
an authentic reproduction
authentic Vietnamese cuisine

When can bona fide be used instead of authentic?

The words bona fide and authentic are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, bona fide implies good faith and sincerity of intention.

a bona fide offer for the stock

Where would genuine be a reasonable alternative to authentic?

The words genuine and authentic can be used in similar contexts, but genuine implies actual character not counterfeited, imitated, or adulterated; it also connotes definite origin from a source.

genuine piety
genuine maple syrup
a genuine Mark Twain autograph

Examples Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of authentic Try to get a seat on the terrace for live music and authentic Uzbeki cuisine. Yasemen Kaner-White, theweek, 26 Nov. 2024 Celebrating this shift, companies like Tomorrow London and digital partner Diana Corp. are leading the charge in integrating these vibrant subcultures into the luxury fashion narrative, ensuring a deep, authentic connection with diverse audiences. Fairchild Studio, WWD, 26 Nov. 2024 But, James’ depiction, directed by Tanya Hamilton, is authentic and immersive. Aramide Tinubu, Variety, 25 Nov. 2024 The rating never came though — Prey played too fast and loose with comics canon to court fans still starved for authentic adaptations, yet leaned on comics references hard enough to possibly alienate newcomers. Joshua Rivera, Vulture, 13 Nov. 2024 See all Example Sentences for authentic 
Recent Examples of Synonyms for authentic
Adjective
  • It’s commonly assumed that DEI work is only designated for a specific position within leadership or HR, when in reality, genuine DEI is embedded throughout an organization and is beyond a stand-alone role, group or function.
    Carla Thompson Payton, Essence, 22 Nov. 2024
  • Notably, the brand did activations not just at the race track, but in the cities where shoppers who were unable to attend the race could purchase the collaboration — making a genuine connection with their customers.
    Kanika Talwar, WWD, 21 Nov. 2024
Adjective
  • Provide accurate and real-time tracking of their shipments, and make sure your processes are end-user-friendly.
    Raheel Sheikh, Forbes, 22 Nov. 2024
  • Athleta is celebrating Singles Day early with 25% off everything Shop early Black Friday purse deals for up to 85% off Coach, Michael Kors, Marc Jacobs Prices were accurate at the time this article was published but may change over time.
    Kasey Caminiti, USA TODAY, 21 Nov. 2024
Adjective
  • Simard: Some of it is just combined with comedy in general, to be honest.
    Juan A. Ramírez, Vogue, 22 Nov. 2024
  • Stick to transparent, honest consent methods that respect users and ensure compliance.
    Ian Cohen, Forbes, 22 Nov. 2024
Adjective
  • This is especially true if a maker has a particular project or range of projects in mind.
    Bob Beacham, Popular Science, 22 Nov. 2024
  • Hospital officials have said that's not true – and, in fact, would be a violation of a new Ohio law.
    Amber Hunt, The Enquirer, 21 Nov. 2024
Adjective
  • The struggle is real!), a fur-sucking vacuum cleaner is in order.
    Malia Griggs, Glamour, 29 Nov. 2024
  • Inevitably, this means some patients with real need for pain relief go undertreated or completely untreated.
    Richard A. Friedman, The Atlantic, 29 Nov. 2024
Adjective
  • James said other people were discussed — a notion Scott playfully challenged — but Mescal had the exact combination of qualities needed to step into Russell Crowe’s shoes.
    Jim Hemphill, IndieWire, 22 Nov. 2024
  • The exact cause isn’t fully understood, but experts believe these episodes happen when certain nerves in your blood vessels are activated (by stress, perhaps, or a lack of sleep), sending pain signals to your brain and causing inflammation.
    Jenna Ryu, SELF, 22 Nov. 2024
Adjective
  • The original data was derived from the Brownie`s Marine Group Inc quarterly 10-Q report dated November 20, 2024.
    Quartz Bot, Quartz, 20 Nov. 2024
  • The musical was written by Linus Karp and Joseph Martin, and features original music by Leland and vocals by Daren Criss and Cat Cohen.
    Emily Zemler, Rolling Stone, 20 Nov. 2024

Thesaurus Entries Near authentic

Cite this Entry

“Authentic.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/authentic. Accessed 3 Dec. 2024.

More from Merriam-Webster on authentic

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