adj

authoritative

aw-THO-rih-tuh-tihv

adj

Recognised as reliable, accurate, and worth trusting because of its expertise.

"This textbook is considered the authoritative guide to the subject."

Having a commanding, confident manner that inspires obedience or trust.

"She spoke in an authoritative tone that silenced the room."

How to Use Authoritative

Learner’s notes

In plain EnglishTrusted as an expert source, or speaking with commanding confidence.

Common pairings

authoritative source authoritative tone authoritative account

more authoritative comparative, most authoritative superlative

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This textbook is considered the _____ guide to the subject.

From authority plus the suffix -ative, both ultimately from Latin auctor ("originator").

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