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Definition of genuinenext
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Synonym Chooser

How does the adjective genuine contrast with its synonyms?

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

In what contexts can authentic take the place of genuine?

While in some cases nearly identical to genuine, 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

Where would bona fide be a reasonable alternative to genuine?

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

a bona fide offer for the stock

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 genuine The uppers are made of genuine suede leather, and the outsoles have built-in traction that doesn’t distract from their minimalistic style. Caley Sturgill, Southern Living, 5 Jan. 2026 The goal, in other words, is for the story to feel genuine without being explicitly so. Shirley Li, The Atlantic, 5 Jan. 2026 This means that applicants do not need to be elite athletes or chasing personal bests—what matters most is a genuine love for running, people, and storytelling. Stacey Leasca, Travel + Leisure, 4 Jan. 2026 The media’s historical focus on higher-profile candidates and outsiders may reflect not press frivolity but rather genuine shifts in voter sentiment during periods of discontent with conventional politicians and established governance approaches. Los Angeles Times, 4 Jan. 2026 See All Example Sentences for genuine
Recent Examples of Synonyms for genuine
Adjective
  • From the upscale shopping paradise of Bal Harbor to the authentic cultures of Little Havana and Little Haiti, and the contemporary art scene of the Design District, the destination offers a variety of experiences.
    Condé Nast Traveler, Condé Nast Traveler, 10 Jan. 2026
  • The video quickly went viral, reaching over 2 million views with many viewers assuming the image was authentic.
    Jordan Greene, PEOPLE, 9 Jan. 2026
Adjective
  • Its orange light is the result of an atmospheric effect called Rayleigh Scattering, wherein particles deflect the bluer wavelengths of light reflected from the lunar surface, while allowing redder wavelengths to pass through relatively unaffected.
    Anthony Wood, Space.com, 5 Jan. 2026
  • First, Erickson highlighted that AWS has the most diversified and hedged revenue sources, with its core business largely unaffected by generative AI and not a competitor of ChatGPT maker OpenAI.
    TipRanks.com Staff, CNBC, 4 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
  • Carote 16-Piece Nonstick Cookware Set The right nonstick cookware can be an actual kitchen game changer—and Carote’s 16-piece set delivers on that promise.
    Mariana Best, Better Homes & Gardens, 10 Jan. 2026
  • Everything was really incorrect for the period—shiny, sparkly, overdone—but the actual shapes and silhouettes of his clothes are quite accurate.
    Radhika Seth, Vogue, 10 Jan. 2026
Adjective
  • This simple taupe geometric style peel-and-stick wallpaper is affordable, easy to apply, and looks gorgeous without being too bold or loud.
    Brittney Morgan, Travel + Leisure, 12 Jan. 2026
  • The simple addition of zipper detailing adds a preppy energy to the top.
    Izzy Baskette, PEOPLE, 12 Jan. 2026
Adjective
  • But under questioning from Cruz, Vladeck conceded that approving a nondisclosure order without any factual proffer would be inconsistent with a judge’s oath, if that hypothetical were true.
    Kaelan Deese, The Washington Examiner, 8 Jan. 2026
  • The producer is Angie Daniell, the casting director is Jenny Duffy, the factual producer is Louise Kentleton and director of production is Lianne Hickey.
    Lily Ford, HollywoodReporter, 7 Jan. 2026

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Cite this Entry

“Genuine.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/genuine. Accessed 12 Jan. 2026.

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