B1adjectiveformal1K

Official

UK /["/əˈfɪʃl/"]/US /["/əˈfɪʃl/"]/

Definition

agreed to, said, done, etc. by somebody who is in a position of authority

In simple words: Something that is formal or authorized.

Examples

The official statement clarified the company's position on the matter.
We need to wait for the official approval before proceeding with the project.
She was appointed as the official representative for the event.
The unofficial report suggested a different outcome.
He received an official letter confirming his appointment.
The official records show that the event took place in 2021.
During the meeting, an unofficial discussion arose among the participants.
Her post on social media was not great as an official announcement.

Usage notes

Use 'official' for formal documents, statements, or events. It's not suitable for casual situations. Be cautious using it in informal speech.

Grammar pattern

standalone adjective

Memory hint

Think of an 'officer' in a uniform, they represent something 'official'.

Collocations

official statement
official documents
official capacity
official events
official language

Synonyms

authorized
formal
legitimate
sanctioned
certified

Antonyms

unofficial
informal

Common mistakes

Confused with 'officious' which means being overly eager to help.
Using 'official' in a casual context rather than in formal situations.
Mistakenly spelling it as 'offical'.