an authoritative

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "an authoritative" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when describing something that has the power or right to give orders, make decisions, or enforce obedience, often in a formal context. Example: "The report was based on an authoritative source, ensuring the information was reliable and credible."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

What might an authoritative woman sound like?

The New Yorker

Chappell is an authoritative source.

The Guardian - Sport

There's an authoritative arrogance about them.

The Guardian - Arts

They all maintain an authoritative, boring persona".

The New York Times

Read this for an authoritative accounting.

The Guardian - Opinion

It was an authoritative performance, evenhanded and self-contained.

The New York Times - Arts

"It's not always an authoritative museum," Ms. Greenwald said.

The New York Times - Arts

Harmonizing nicely with Lin, Fields opened with an authoritative flourish.

The New York Times

Workaday contempt doesn't have an authoritative explainer yet.

The New York Times - Magazine

"They're going to be looking for an authoritative face".

The New York Times

At last, an authoritative history of basket-weaving.

The Guardian - Film

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "an authoritative" to describe sources, figures, or information that carry significant weight and credibility due to expertise, recognition, or official endorsement.

Common error

Avoid using "an authoritative" when you actually mean "an authoritarian". "Authoritative" implies expertise and credibility, while "authoritarian" suggests a dictatorial or excessively controlling approach.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "an authoritative" primarily functions as a descriptive adjective, modifying a noun to indicate that it possesses recognized expertise, credibility, and reliability. As Ludwig AI indicates, the phrase is widely used and understood, reinforcing its function as a standard descriptor.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Science

35%

Formal & Business

15%

Less common in

Wiki

5%

Encyclopedias

3%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "an authoritative" is a widely used and grammatically correct adjective phrase that conveys expertise and credibility. According to Ludwig AI, the phrase is both valid and commonly used. It is most frequently found in news, scientific, and business contexts, signaling reliability and informed judgment. When using this phrase, it's important to distinguish it from "an authoritarian", which implies strict control rather than expertise. Related terms include "a definitive", "a reliable", and "a credible", each with slightly different nuances. By understanding these distinctions, writers can effectively convey the intended meaning and enhance the clarity and impact of their writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a definitive

Emphasizes the finality and completeness of the subject.

a commanding

Focuses more on the imposing nature of the subject.

a credible

Stresses the believability of the subject.

a reliable

Highlights the trustworthiness of the subject.

a trustworthy

Similar to reliable, but emphasizes integrity.

an expert

Highlights expertise in the field.

a leading

Suggests prominence and influence.

an influential

Focuses on the power to affect others.

a respected

Emphasizes the esteem held by others.

a canonical

Implies adherence to established standards or principles.

FAQs

How can I use "an authoritative" in a sentence?

You can use "an authoritative" to describe someone or something that is considered an expert or a reliable source of information. For example, "The professor is "an authority" in her field", or "This book is "an excellent" source on the subject".

What are some alternatives to "an authoritative"?

Alternatives to "an authoritative" include "a definitive", "a reliable", "a credible", or "an expert" depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is "an authoritative" the same as "an authoritarian"?

No, "an authoritative" and "an authoritarian" have different meanings. "An authoritative" refers to someone or something with recognized expertise or credibility, while "an authoritarian" describes someone who enforces strict obedience to authority.

When is it appropriate to use "an authoritative" in writing?

It's appropriate to use "an authoritative" when you want to emphasize the expertise, credibility, and reliability of a source, person, or piece of information. Ensure the context aligns with the positive connotation of having authority based on knowledge and experience.