What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
authenticate
Example
The expert was able to authenticate the painting as an original Picasso. [authenticate: verb]
Example
The website requires users to authenticate their accounts using a unique code. [authenticate: verb]
certify
Example
The inspector will certify that the building meets all safety regulations. [certify: verb]
Example
She received a certified copy of her birth certificate from the government. [certified: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Certify is more commonly used than authenticate in everyday language. Certify has a broader range of applications and is frequently used in various professional fields, such as certifications, qualifications, and compliance. Authenticate is less common and tends to be used in more specific contexts, such as art authentication or verifying the authenticity of documents.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between authenticate and certify?
While authenticate is generally associated with a more casual and informal tone, certify is considered more formal, especially when used in official or legal contexts.
