What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
authentic
Example
The painting was confirmed to be an authentic masterpiece. [authentic: adjective]
Example
She always speaks with an authentic voice, never pretending to be someone she's not. [authentic: adjective]
genuine
Example
He showed genuine concern for his friend's well-being. [genuine: adjective]
Example
The diamond ring is made of genuine gold and real diamonds. [genuine: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Genuine is more commonly used than authentic in everyday language. Genuine is versatile and covers a wider range of contexts, while authentic is less common and is typically used in specific domains such as art, artifacts, or experiences.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between authentic and genuine?
While authentic is generally considered more formal, genuine can be used in both formal and informal contexts, making it a more flexible choice for ESL learners.
