B2adjectiveformalacademicsociety
US/əˈθɔːr.ə.teɪ.tɪv/
UK/ɔːˈθɒr.ɪ.tə.tɪv/
trusted as correct and reliable, or showing confident control and expecting to be obeyed
In context
This is the most authoritative guide to English grammar.
She spoke in a calm, authoritative voice that made everyone listen.
The report cites authoritative sources throughout, including government data.
Words that go with authoritative
adjective + noun
- authoritative sourceCheck an authoritative source before you share the news.
- authoritative voiceThe narrator has a deep, authoritative voice.
- authoritative guideThis is the authoritative guide to the region.
- authoritative accountHer book is the authoritative account of the war.
- authoritative toneHe answered in an authoritative tone.
- authoritative figureTeachers are often seen as authoritative figures.
Common mistakes
Incorrect:
The boss is very authoritative, so he never listens to us.Correct: The boss is very authoritarian, so he never listens to us.