Words / C1

orth-en-TIS-uh-tee/ˌɔːθenˈtɪsəti/

Authenticity is the quality of being real, genuine, or true to a claimed origin: the authenticity of a painting, authentic materials in class. Genuineness is a close synonym; reality is broader and vaguer. Authentic is the adjective; authenticate is the verb (experts authenticate a document). In speech, whether it is the real thing is enough. In marketing, authenticity is overused — prefer specific proof (date, source, method).

Meaning

The quality of being real, genuine, or true to a claimed origin.

Examples

• “Experts checked the authenticity of the painting.”
• “Experts questioned the authenticity of the signature, not the frame.”
• “Learners wanted authenticity in the listening: real speed, real accents.”

Good to know

Genuineness; being the real thing. Adjective: authentic. Verb: authenticate. Everyday: the real thing. Overused in advertising.

Near in meaning

genuineness

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