authoritative
- 01 B2 Upper Intermediate
having a confident and powerful way of behaving that makes people respect and obey you.
possessing a commanding or impressive style that suggests power or the right to be obeyed.
Simple“The teacher spoke in an authoritative voice that immediately silenced the noisy classroom.”
In context“Her authoritative manner during the crisis ensured that the staff followed safety protocols without hesitation or confusion.”
UsageUsually describes a person's voice, tone, or manner.
Synonyms - 02 C1 Advanced
containing the best and most reliable information on a subject.
recognised as being accurate, definitive, and based on excellent knowledge or research.
Simple“This book is considered the most authoritative guide to local birds.”
In context“The professor published an authoritative study on the economic shifts of the nineteenth century, which remains a standard text in the field.”
UsageOften used to describe books, reports, sources, or studies.
Teacher's tipIn academic contexts, this implies the source is the 'final word' on a topic.
SynonymsAntonyms - 03 B2 Upper Intermediate
coming from a person or group that has the official power to make decisions.
originating from or sanctioned by a recognised authority or governing body.
Simple“We are still waiting for an authoritative statement from the government about the new law.”
In context“The council issued an authoritative directive requiring all residents to register their vehicles by the end of the month.”
SynonymsAntonyms
“As a scout leader, Fox, who was also a police officer, was commanding and authoritative.”
“Scholars at the Library of Alexandria attempted to establish an authoritative version of the Greek text as early as the third century B.C.E.”
From authorit(y) + -ative.
Etymology adapted from Wiktionary, available under CC BY-SA 4.0.