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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 But China’s economic data offers little confirmation that a genuine and sustainable rebound is underway, market watchers said. Lee Ying Shan, CNBC, 29 Sep. 2025 Whether driven by genuine strategic evolution or survival instincts, Netanyahu’s transformation from cautious manager to regional gambler remains incomplete. Tal Shalev, CNN Money, 29 Sep. 2025 Both defenders look great and can be very handy enablers or genuine playable options. Abdul Rehman, New York Times, 29 Sep. 2025 The clogs are made of genuine suede, a fall-ready material Kate Middleton stepped out in earlier this month. Isabel Garcia, PEOPLE, 28 Sep. 2025 See All Example Sentences for genuine
Recent Examples of Synonyms for genuine
Adjective
  • As a remake of the original 2013 PS3 game, The Last of Us was rebuilt with better graphics while retaining an authentic experience.
    PC Magazine, PC Magazine, 3 Oct. 2025
  • Their mission is to preserve and enhance the ethos of the iconic American West by bringing these offerings to a broader audience in modern, authentic ways.
    Rosy Cordero, Deadline, 3 Oct. 2025
Adjective
  • That leaves Wednesday’s release of minutes from the Federal Reserve’s last policy meeting as the main economic report to watch in the coming week as the central bank is self-funded and unaffected by the shutdown.
    Danny Bakst, Fortune, 6 Oct. 2025
  • While federal workers are not being paid and most offices are not offering services, Social Security, Medicare and Medicaid benefits are unaffected.
    David Lightman, Sacbee.com, 6 Oct. 2025
Adjective
  • Will his shooting and floater game give enough offensive jolt to add some real spacing around a roster that, even with Kevin Durant, seems notably deficient in terms of spacing?
    John Hollinger, New York Times, 1 Oct. 2025
  • Come for some of the best actresses of our time as power-hungry witches; stay for Stevie Nicks' cameo as a real one.
    James Mercadante, Entertainment Weekly, 1 Oct. 2025
Adjective
  • Anonymity also allows the scouts to be completely honest, without fear of reprisals.
    Josh Robbins, New York Times, 7 Oct. 2025
  • At the time, the Times responded by affirming a commitment to honest dialogue and mutual respect among colleagues.
    David Folkenflik, NPR, 6 Oct. 2025
Adjective
  • Watching my great-grandmother, grandmother, mother and aunt serve as loyal members of this sorority shaped my understanding of what true sisterhood and service look like.
    Essence, Essence, 3 Oct. 2025
  • With markets looking unperturbed, that might turn out true sooner if nothing serious comes in the way of the bulls.
    Yeo Boon Ping, CNBC, 3 Oct. 2025
Adjective
  • Since some people recover from listeriosis without medical attention and never get tested, the CDC estimates that the actual number of people ill is probably substantially higher than reported, and that the outbreak may not be restricted to the states shown below.
    Janet Loehrke, USA Today, 3 Oct. 2025
  • For a 2022 trip to Egypt for the COP27 conference, the budget accounted for $90,000 in airfare costs, but actual credit card expenses were at least $200,000.
    Kayla Dwyer, IndyStar, 2 Oct. 2025
Adjective
  • Jared Jewelers Bulova Phantom Watch A watch is both practical and fashionable, and this style adds a touch of sparkle to simple outfits.
    Jacqueline Tempera, PEOPLE, 4 Oct. 2025
  • Each year, as the temperature rises, the town’s regular population of around 300 swells with thousands of kids soaking up the simple pleasures of the great outdoors.
    Tara Massouleh McCay, Southern Living, 4 Oct. 2025
Adjective
  • Off Course was co-commissioned for the BBC by Catherine Catton, head of factual entertainment and events, and Eddie Doyle, head of Northern Ireland commissioning.
    Jake Kanter, Deadline, 29 Sep. 2025
  • May acted as his own attorney at a hearing that included prosecutors showing charts explaining in stark, factual ways what was on each video May is charged with distributing.
    Jeffrey Collins, Twin Cities, 26 Sep. 2025

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Cite this Entry

“Genuine.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/genuine. Accessed 8 Oct. 2025.

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