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 first four episodes made available for review likewise have tiny sparks of interest, from some witty dialogue to genuine plot momentum to intriguing new characters popping up. Kelly Lawler, USA Today, 21 June 2026 Every year, Neptune retrograde removes the fog, revealing what is true and genuine, versus just an illusion. Valerie Mesa, PEOPLE, 21 June 2026 They can be called the genuine Value Creators. Steve Denning, Forbes.com, 21 June 2026 Uruguay bet big on renewables and pulled off a genuine energy transformation. Constance Malleret, Christian Science Monitor, 21 June 2026 See All Example Sentences for genuine
Recent Examples of Synonyms for genuine
Adjective
  • The renovation masterfully blends contemporary comforts with the Inn's historic character, aiming for a sophisticated yet authentic residential feel.
    Melissa Kravitz Hoeffner, Forbes.com, 20 June 2026
  • For Edwards, the reaction reinforced why authentic storytelling matters more than ever, especially in her field of work.
    Tereza Shkurtaj, PEOPLE, 20 June 2026
Adjective
  • Solar energy density in orbit can reach six times that on Earth’s surface, unaffected by night cycles, weather, or atmospheric interference.
    Chris Young, Interesting Engineering, 19 June 2026
  • Councilmember Kent Lee, who represents neighborhoods unaffected by the opportunity fund, suggested the city adjust the allocation formula to eliminate bank balances as a criterion.
    David Garrick, San Diego Union-Tribune, 18 June 2026
Adjective
  • But what if the real story is something much bigger?
    Dana Taylor, USA Today, 23 June 2026
  • The investment bank was less enthusiastic about gold as a hedge, noting that higher real yields and a stronger dollar have weighed on bullion prices, while gold options have become relatively expensive compared with equity and rates derivatives.
    Lee Ying Shan, CNBC, 23 June 2026
Adjective
  • From viral Aldi Finds to tried-and-true products shoppers love to tell their friends about, people love the thrill of discovering something new here.
    Gabe Hauari, USA Today, 24 June 2026
  • That rugged access is part of the appeal for buyers seeking a true escape rather than a weekend cabin with neighbors in sight.
    David Caraccio, Sacbee.com, 23 June 2026
Adjective
  • An honest summary would still pass the buck to the voters on a grossly dishonest scheme, but at least the voters might recognize a description that doesn’t cajole, coax and mislead them.
    Sun Sentinel Editorial Board, Sun Sentinel, 20 June 2026
  • The partner who honors their own limits stays honest.
    Mark Travers, Forbes.com, 20 June 2026
Adjective
  • The Aman Beverly Hills, currently under construction and expected to open in 2028, will supposedly not only include a full luxe floor for plastic surgery recovery but actual operating rooms, a private garden just for patients and surgeons on call.
    Merle Ginsberg, HollywoodReporter, 19 June 2026
  • But what about the actual ceremony?
    Allison DeGrushe, StyleCaster, 19 June 2026
Adjective
  • The questions Campbell needs to answer are simple.
    Peter Lucas, Boston Herald, 25 June 2026
  • Get inspired by a weekly roundup on living well, made simple.
    Dr. Jamin Brahmbhatt, CNN Money, 25 June 2026
Adjective
  • The prior Minnesota Anti-SLAPP law required that the court make certain pre-trial factual findings which was held to violate the right to a jury trial.
    Jay Adkisson, Forbes.com, 21 June 2026
  • Currently in pre-production and without a sales agent, the project carries strong environmental timeliness and a genuinely global geographic canvas that should attract factual commissioners.
    Callum McLennan, Variety, 19 June 2026

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Cite this Entry

“Genuine.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/genuine. Accessed 26 Jun. 2026.

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