Word
authoritative
Phoneticsau·thor·i·ta·tive, stress on the second syllable
US/əˈθɔɹəˌteɪtɪv/
UK/ɔːθˈɒɹɪtətˌɪv/
Definitions
01commanding and confident
B2 · Upper Intermediate
adj. having a confident and powerful way of behaving that makes people respect and obey you.
adj. possessing a commanding or impressive style that suggests power or the right to be obeyed.
“The teacher spoke in an authoritative voice that immediately silenced the noisy classroom.”
“Her authoritative manner during the crisis ensured that the staff followed safety protocols without hesitation or confusion.”
Usage
Usually describes a person's voice, tone, or manner.
Synonyms
02reliable and expert
C1 · Advanced Academic
adj. containing the best and most reliable information on a subject.
adj. recognised as being accurate, definitive, and based on excellent knowledge or research.
“This book is considered the most authoritative guide to local birds.”
“The professor published an authoritative study on the economic shifts of the nineteenth century, which remains a standard text in the field.”
Usage
Often used to describe books, reports, sources, or studies.
Teaching tip
In academic contexts, this implies the source is the 'final word' on a topic.
Synonyms
Antonyms
03official
B2 · Upper Intermediate Formal
adj. coming from a person or group that has the official power to make decisions.
adj. originating from or sanctioned by a recognised authority or governing body.
“We are still waiting for an authoritative statement from the government about the new law.”
“The council issued an authoritative directive requiring all residents to register their vehicles by the end of the month.”
Synonyms
Antonyms
Real-World Examples
“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.” Etymology
From authorit(y) + -ative.
Etymology adapted from Wiktionary, available under CC BY-SA 4.0.
- Exam level
- CambridgeCambridgeCambridge English QualificationsThe exam suite from Cambridge University Press & Assessment, from A1 Movers up to C2 Proficiency. The benchmark names double as CEFR labels.B2 FirstIELTSIELTSInternational English Language Testing SystemThe 0–9 band test co-owned by the British Council, IDP, and Cambridge. Used for university entry, work, and migration.5.5–6.5TOEFL iBTTOEFL iBTTest of English as a Foreign Language, Internet-Based TestETS's academic English test, the standard route for US university admissions. Scored 0–120, with a 1–6 scale since 2026.1–6 scale: 4.0–4.572–94TOEICTOEICTest of English for International CommunicationETS's workplace English test, big in Japan and Korea. Listening & Reading scores 10–990 and tops out at C1.785–944
- Frequency
- Frequent
- Level
- B2 · Upper Intermediate
- Updated
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