C1adjective2K

Authentic

UK /["/ɔːˈθentɪk/"]/US /["/ɔːˈθentɪk/"]/

Definition

known to be real and what somebody claims it is and not a copy

In simple words: Real and true; not fake.

Examples

  • I don't know if the painting is authentic.
  • The documents seem authentic enough.
  • an authentic Picasso
  • an authentic account of life in the desert
  • the authentic voice of young black Americans
  • an authentic model of the ancient town
  • Take a trip on an authentic Spanish galleon to the famous Papagayo beach.

Usage notes

Use 'authentic' when something is genuine or original. It is appropriate in both casual and formal contexts; however, avoid using it in overly casual settings.

Grammar pattern

standalone adjective

Memory hint

Think of 'authentic' as 'authent-ic' like a ticket that is real, not a fake.

Collocations

  • authentic experience
  • authentic materials
  • authentic voice
  • authentic culture

Synonyms

  • genuine
  • real
  • legitimate
  • true
  • verified

Antonyms

  • fake
  • false
  • counterfeit

Common mistakes

  • Confusing 'authentic' with 'authoritative'
  • Using 'authentic' inappropriately in place of 'actual'
  • Mispronouncing it as 'authen-tic' instead of 'aw-then-tic'