What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
real
Example
The diamond ring is real, not a fake. [real: adjective]
Example
I can't believe this is real, it feels like a dream. [real: adjective]
legitimate
Example
The company has a legitimate reason for firing the employee. [legitimate: adjective]
Example
The government has legitimate authority to regulate the industry. [legitimate: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Real is more common than legitimate in everyday language, as it covers a wider range of contexts. Legitimate is more formal and often used in legal or official contexts.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between real and legitimate?
Legitimate is more formal than real, and is often used in legal or official contexts. Real is more versatile and can be used in both formal and informal contexts.
