legitimate

[li-jit-uh-mit, li-jit-uh-meyt] / lɪˈdʒɪt ə mɪt, lɪˈdʒɪt əˌmeɪt /

ADJECTIVE

authentic, valid, legal

Synonyms

STRONGEST

appropriate certain consistent correct fair genuine justifiable lawful logical natural normal proper real reasonable reliable rightful sensible statutory true well-founded

STRONG

accepted accredited acknowledged authorized good-faith received recognized sanctioned sound warranted

WEAK

admissible canonical cogent customary innocent just licit official on the level on the up and up orthodox probable regular sure typical usual verifiable

Antonyms

STRONGEST

abnormal affected counterfeit deceptive dishonest false illegal illegitimate improper incorrect invalid irrational irregular uncommon unconventional unfitting unreal unreasonable unreliable unsuitable untrustworthy

WEAK

unlawful unwarranted

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

That puts bears in a tough spot, even if their concerns are legitimate.

From Barron's • Apr. 1, 2026

But they reasserted themselves as legitimate playoff contenders behind Doncic’s historic brilliance.

From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 1, 2026

Mail journalists giving evidence said they believed PIs had access to legitimate databases allowing them to get public information more quickly, in an era when less was available online.

From BBC • Mar. 31, 2026

Said has previously said his oil trades were legitimate.

From The Wall Street Journal • Mar. 30, 2026

Since their fears are legitimate, I need to let them keep their anonymity.

From "The Freedom Writers Diary" by The Freedom Writers

legitimate

Example Sentences

Related Words