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Authoritative Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

๐Ÿ‘จโ€๐Ÿ’ผ
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authoritative

[ษ™หˆฮธษ’rษชหŒteษชtษชv ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Adjective

in a professional setting

Having the power or right to give orders, make decisions, and enforce obedience.

Synonyms

authoritarian, commanding, official.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
authoritative

Once again, 'authoritative' relates to being commanding and respected due to knowledge or authority. This is identical to the first usage mentioned.

  • The authoritative book on the subject is often cited by other researchers.
official

Pertains to being formal, set by someone in authority, or pertaining to an office or position of authority. Often used in contexts involving government or organizations.

  • The official statement from the company addressed the recent rumors.
authoritarian

Describes a style of governance or leadership that demands strict obedience, often at the expense of personal freedom. This word typically has a negative connotation.

  • The authoritarian regime imposed new laws that limited free speech.
commanding

Refers to a forceful and confident manner, often used in the context of giving orders or showing leadership. It can also describe a dominant or prominent position.

  • His commanding presence ensured that everyone paid attention.

Examples of usage

  • The CEO's authoritative demeanor commanded respect from all employees.
  • Her authoritative tone left no room for argument.
  • An authoritative figure in the field of medicine.
Context #2 | Adjective

in a scholarly context

Regarded as accurate and reliable because of one's knowledge or expertise.

Synonyms

credible, reliable, trustworthy.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
authoritative

Used to describe a source or person that is recognized for their expert opinion or knowledge, often in an official or commanding way.

  • The study was published in an authoritative journal
  • His voice was calm and authoritative
reliable

Used to describe someone or something that can be depended on consistently, often in terms of accuracy or performance.

  • You can trust him; he is very reliable
  • The data from the experiment is reliable
credible

Used to describe something or someone that is believable and convincing.

  • The witness provided a credible account of the events
  • The website is a credible source of health information
trustworthy

Used to describe someone or something that can be trusted because they are honest and ethical.

  • She is a trustworthy friend who will never let you down
  • Make sure the software you are downloading is from a trustworthy website

Examples of usage

  • His authoritative book on the subject is widely cited in academic circles.
  • The professor's authoritative research has shaped the field.
  • An authoritative source for historical information.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Psychology

  • Research shows that people are more likely to follow rules when they perceive someone as authoritative.
  • Authoritative figures can influence group behavior through compliance and obedience.
  • The 'authoritative parenting' style is linked to positive outcomes in children's development, combining guidance with warmth.

Pop Culture

  • Incidents in news often showcase the clash between authoritative leaders and public protests.
  • Authoritative characters frequently appear in movies, such as powerful leaders or mentors in epic stories.
  • The popularity of 'authoritative' social media influencers shows the community's trust in their opinions.

Education

  • In classrooms, an authoritative teaching style blends high expectations with supportive interaction.
  • Students often respond well to teachers who exhibit authoritative behaviors, fostering deeper engagement.
  • Educational materials dubbed as authoritative provide a reliable basis for scholarly research.

History

  • Historical rulers often relied on their authoritative presence to maintain control over their empires.
  • The Magna Carta was a significant document limiting the authority of the king, shaping modern governance.
  • During the Enlightenment, the concept of authority was challenged, leading to revolutions and new forms of government.

Origin of 'authoritative'

Main points about word origin

  • The word comes from the Latin 'auctoritas', meaning support or influence.
  • In the 14th century, it started being used in English to describe someone with recognized power.
  • It has evolved to describe not just persons but also texts, documents, or sources that are trusted.

The word 'authoritative' is derived from the Latin word 'auctoritas', which means 'influence' or 'command'. The term first appeared in English in the 17th century. Over time, 'authoritative' has come to represent someone or something with the power or expertise to be respected and followed. It is commonly used in professional and academic settings to denote credibility and reliability.

See also: authored, authoring, authoritarian, authorities, authority, authorization, authorize, authorized, authorizer, authors, authorship.

Word Frequency Rank

Position #7,697 indicates this is an advanced-level word. While not essential for basic communication, it will enhance your ability to understand and create more nuanced content.