What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
prescriptive
Example
The prescriptive approach to language learning emphasizes the importance of following grammar rules. [prescriptive: adjective]
Example
The teacher was very prescriptive in her corrections of our essays. [prescriptive: adjective]
authoritative
Example
The book is an authoritative source on the history of the Civil War. [authoritative: adjective]
Example
The doctor's authoritative tone reassured the patient that they were in good hands. [authoritative: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Authoritative is more commonly used than prescriptive in everyday language. Authoritative is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while prescriptive is less common and is usually used in specific contexts related to language or writing.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between prescriptive and authoritative?
While prescriptive is typically associated with a more formal or academic tone, authoritative can be employed in various formality levels, allowing it to be used in both formal and informal contexts.
