BONA FIDE Synonyms: 72 Similar and Opposite Words

Q: How does the adjective 'bona fide' contrast with its synonyms?

The words authentic and genuine are common synonyms of bona fide . While all three words mean "being actually and exactly what is claimed," bona fide implies good faith and sincerity of intention. // a bona fide offer for the stock

Q: When is 'authentic' a more appropriate choice than 'bona fide'?

The meanings of authentic and bona fide largely overlap; however, 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

Q: When could 'genuine' be used to replace 'bona fide'?

The synonyms genuine and bona fide are sometimes interchangeable, 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

bona fide

adjective

ˈbō-nə-ˌfīd

Definition of bona fide next

as in authentic

being exactly as appears or as claimed a bona fide war hero

Synonyms & Similar Words

Relevance

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

Synonym Chooser

How does the adjective bona fide contrast with its synonyms?

The words authentic and genuine are common synonyms of bona fide. While all three words mean "being actually and exactly what is claimed," bona fide implies good faith and sincerity of intention.

a bona fide offer for the stock

When is authentic a more appropriate choice than bona fide?

The meanings of authentic and bona fide largely overlap; however, 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 could genuine be used to replace bona fide?

The synonyms genuine and bona fide are sometimes interchangeable, 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

Example 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 bona fide For much of the 2024 season, the Vikings' vagabond quarterback looked like a bona fide MVP candidate. —

Jim Reineking, USA TODAY, 10 Jan. 2025 By Shirley Li When the South Korean drama Squid Game hit Netflix in 2021, the show became a bona fide cultural phenomenon. —

Shirley Li, The Atlantic, 26 Dec. 2024 This means Bohm was most likely to be used in a trade for a bona fide ace like Luis Castillo or Garrett Crochet. —

Josh Hammer, Newsweek, 23 Dec. 2024 The Canucks entered the season looking poised to take the next step as a bona fide Cup contender. —

Dom Luszczyszyn, The Athletic, 9 Jan. 2025 See all Example Sentences for bona fide

Recent Examples of Synonyms for bona fide

Adjective

Micro-influencers bridge the gap between brands and communities, ensuring the underserved groups feel seen, understood and valued because of their authentic, relatable communication style and ability to deeply engage with niche audiences.

— Tony Gonzalez, Forbes, 21 Jan. 2025
As for its authentic green credentials, the Beach Club Explorer Catamaran includes eco-friendly aluminum and sustainable decking materials throughout.

— Nicole Hoey, Robb Report, 21 Jan. 2025