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Definition of authenticnext

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

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 authentic The University Press student newspaper published screenshots of the posts, which Polak confirmed were authentic. Shira Moolten, Sun Sentinel, 9 Jan. 2026 In the rapidly evolving world of denim manufacturing, the quest for sustainability often clashes with the demand for authentic, high-quality aesthetics. Sj Studio, Sourcing Journal, 8 Jan. 2026 Amy Cuddy, a social psychologist and New York Times best-selling author, said Cignetti’s authentic nature is one of the many reasons his demeanor is intriguing to people. Scott Dochterman, New York Times, 8 Jan. 2026 Rather than finding an alternative to authentic Italian ingredients, Osteria da Fortunata sources organic guanciale, pecorino romano, cage-free eggs and more directly from home. Wyles Daniel, Miami Herald, 7 Jan. 2026 See All Example Sentences for authentic
Recent Examples of Synonyms for authentic
Adjective
  • Nothing wrong with a little fantasy, but this year’s astrology asks us to stop romanticizing potential and start paying attention to what feels genuine, reciprocal and enduring.
    Valerie Mesa, PEOPLE, 7 Jan. 2026
  • The tears in Yang’s eyes appeared genuine.
    Andrew McGowan, Variety, 7 Jan. 2026
Adjective
  • Mostly, though, Boland strangles batters with his suffocating and deadly-accurate line and length.
    Tim Spiers, New York Times, 7 Jan. 2026
  • Comedians can sometimes be eerily accurate in the way their jokes predict the future.
    Literary Hub, Literary Hub, 7 Jan. 2026
Adjective
  • The defense bent a lot and didn’t break often but didn’t have any real signature plays.
    Jordan McPherson, Miami Herald, 9 Jan. 2026
  • While some calas are accessible by car, others can only be reached by a short hike—that’s where visitors will find the real magic and privacy.
    Liz Provencher, Travel + Leisure, 9 Jan. 2026
Adjective
  • This is especially true for plants that are marginally hardy in your area, as well as common perennials like woodland phlox, lamb’s ear, and hardy geraniums.
    Lauren Landers, Better Homes & Gardens, 11 Jan. 2026
  • Fellow true freshman Joshua Moore should be in line for a bigger role next season as well.
    Jordan McPherson, Miami Herald, 11 Jan. 2026
Adjective
  • Yet, to be honest, our dance card is already mighty full with a whole array of different kinds of gigs – from big pop shows to classic rock concerts and a number of different small club shows.
    Jim Harrington, Mercury News, 6 Jan. 2026
  • Shared finances, emotional investments or trust issues become crystal clear, prompting honest conversations and practical decision-making.
    Valerie Mesa, PEOPLE, 6 Jan. 2026
Adjective
  • Although the venue’s exact location within Victoria Park is yet to be finalized, early studies by an an independent panel suggested that the stadium would occupy between 12% and 13% of its land.
    Oscar Holland, CNN Money, 7 Jan. 2026
  • The data below doesn’t include exact employee counts and is based on the most recent reports.
    Nick Wooten, Dallas Morning News, 6 Jan. 2026
Adjective
  • This translation by Nancy Naomi Carlson preserves the rich musicality of the original French, as well as its frequent use of wordplay and often unusual word choice.
    Literary Hub, Literary Hub, 10 Nov. 2025
  • Jim Carrey inducted Soundgarden, bringing out the late Chris Cornell’s eldest daughter, Lily Cornell Silver, to speak about her father and introduce a performance by his former Soundgarden bandmates, including original member Hiro Yamamoto, with Taylor Momsen and Brandi Carlisle singing vocals.
    Nicole Fell, HollywoodReporter, 9 Nov. 2025

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Cite this Entry

“Authentic.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/authentic. Accessed 13 Jan. 2026.

More from Merriam-Webster on authentic

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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