rhizoverbBeta
DictionaryauthoritativeReliable and accepted
adjective

authoritative

uh-THOR-uh-tay-tiv/əˈθɔːrəteɪtɪv/

Commanding trust or respect through recognized authority.

The experienced watchmaker gives authoritative guidance while explaining the mechanism to an apprentice.

An experienced watchmaker confidently explains a mechanism to an attentive apprentice, showing recognized expert knowledge through precise work.
Etymology
authoritatLatinauthority, influence, command
+iveLatinhaving the character of

Authority includes both the right to command and the power to inspire trust. An authoritative statement therefore carries weight as something entitled to belief or obedience, including through recognized expertise.

In context

American Reading Company42:15
formulas are a kind of information transmission it's an authoritative imposition as this is the way you have to write
The Power of Promoting Pleasure in Reading and Writing

More examples

  • Her calm, authoritative voice brought the room to order.
  • Researchers needed an authoritative source for the figures.
  • The museum published an authoritative account of the painting's history.

Forms

authoritatively adverb — With recognized knowledge or commanding confidence.

Similar words

definitive
Suggests a final or comprehensive treatment rather than trusted authority alone.
commanding
Emphasizes presence or manner that demands attention and respect.