What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
authoritative
Example
The professor's authoritative voice commanded the attention of the students. [authoritative: adjective]
Example
She wrote an authoritative book on the history of art. [authoritative: adjective]
official
Example
The official announcement will be made tomorrow. [official: adjective]
Example
He is an official representative of the company. [official: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Official is more commonly used than authoritative in everyday language. Official is a versatile word that can be used in various contexts, while authoritative is more specific and often used in more specialized or academic settings.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between authoritative and official?
While official is associated with a more formal tone due to its bureaucratic connotations, authoritative can be used in both formal and informal contexts depending on the situation. Authoritative is often used in academic or professional settings to convey expertise and credibility.
