Words / B1

JEN-yoo-in/ˈdʒenjuɪn/

Genuine means real, true, and not fake. Genuine leather; genuine interest. Real is the everyday word; authentic is close for objects and culture. Fake and false are opposites. Genuinely is a useful adverb: I am genuinely sorry. Do not confuse it with generous (giving).

Meaning

Real, true, and not fake.

Examples

• “She showed genuine interest in my work.”
• “Is this a genuine signature?”
• “He seemed genuinely surprised by the news.”

Good to know

genuine + noun. Adverb: genuinely. Fake objects: authentic vs fake.

Near in meaning

real, authentic

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