authoritative

B2 Topic:People & Society
US /ɔːˈθɒɹɪtɪv/ UK /ɔːˈθɒɹɪtətɪv/
adj Freq #35457

Meanings

  1. 1
    adj

    Trusted as accurate and reliable because it comes from real knowledge.

    This book is the most authoritative guide to British birds.

  2. 2
    adj

    Showing confidence and the ability to be obeyed.

    He gave the orders in a calm, authoritative voice.

  3. 3
    adj

    Officially approved or coming from a person in charge.

    We are waiting for an authoritative statement from the government.

Thesaurus

Synonyms
1 adj · trusted as accurate and... definitivereliable
2 adj · showing confidence and the... commandingmasterful
3 adj · officially approved or... authorizedofficial
Word family
Forms authoritatively
Derived forms authoritativelyauthoritativenessinauthoritativenonauthoritativeunauthoritative

Etymology

From authorit(y) + -ative.

Topics

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