Definitions

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.

He told BBC Radio 4 Today programme it was "absolutely legitimate to talk about immigration in the context of national security".

From BBC • Jun. 10, 2026

We’re supposed to believe that this is still a legitimate settlement between two adverse parties?

From Slate • Jun. 9, 2026

To be sure, there is a legitimate conversation to be had about how to improve election administration — including funding, staffing, technology and public communication.

From Salon • Jun. 6, 2026

This comparatively muted response raises legitimate questions about the stock’s staying power.

From Barron's • Jun. 5, 2026

She wasn’t sure if this was a legitimate problem, even though it was a problem.

From "A Heart in a Body in the World" by Deb Caletti

Vocabulary lists containing legitimate

The Real Deal: Synonyms for "True"

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"Diary of a Wimpy Kid" by Jeff Kinney

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100 SAT Words Beginning with "J," "K," and "L"

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