1
as in definitive
being the most accurate and apparently thorough this book is considered the most authoritative source on that subject

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2
as in influential
having power over the minds or behavior of others after a couple of authoritative critics panned the movie, the other reviewers rushed to say how awful it was

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Antonyms & Near Antonyms

3

Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of authoritative Unlike traditional Pentecostalism, however, the organization emphasizes modern-day apostles and prophets as authoritative leaders tasked with transforming society and ushering in God’s kingdom on Earth. Art Jipson, The Conversation, 8 July 2025 Those that share traits with the permissive style, such as giving in to the child’s demands, might struggle more than those who lean toward the authoritative style. Anna Earl, Parents, 2 July 2025 Whereas serif fonts feel authoritative and timeless, sans serif fonts can feel modern or informal. Aytekin Tank, Forbes.com, 1 July 2025 Ralphs’ tasteful, authoritative and often-underrated guitar work and songwriting acumen were a trademark of both bands across the 1970s. Jem Aswad, Variety, 23 June 2025 See All Example Sentences for authoritative
Recent Examples of Synonyms for authoritative
Adjective
  • According to the biography, Paltrow advised her team during moments of controversy that the brand’s goal was to spark thought-provoking conversations, not to offer definitive answers.
    Michaela Zee, Variety, 29 July 2025
  • Introducing the 2025 Fortune 500, the definitive ranking of the biggest companies in America.
    Amanda Gerut, Fortune, 29 July 2025
Adjective
  • For decades since then, Argentinian artists like José Muñoz have been among the most important and influential cartoonists in the world.
    Alex Dueben July 21, Literary Hub, 21 July 2025
  • After all, such influential MAGA voices as Tucker Carlson and Steve Bannon had been insisting for years that Epstein's suicide was suspicious and his powerful associates hidden.
    USA Today, USA Today, 20 July 2025
Adjective
  • North Korea is under sanctions from the United States — as well as the United Nations and several other countries — largely in response to the isolated authoritarian state's weapons programs.
    Alana Wise, NPR, 25 July 2025
  • While Western democracies debate environmental reviews and grid reliability, authoritarian systems can rapidly direct energy flows to computing infrastructure.
    Güney Yıldız, Forbes.com, 25 July 2025
Adjective
  • The precocious musician began studying classical piano at the age of 7 and later pivoted to pop music.
    Edward Segarra, USA Today, 28 July 2025
  • The version of the Renaissance beloved of Pater or John Ruskin—a lyrical overture to beauty and communal order, refined by classical aestheticism—is, on this view, sentimental.
    Adam Gopnik, New Yorker, 28 July 2025
Adjective
  • Avoid being domineering, but also avoid being stepped on by someone else.
    Georgia Nicols, Denver Post, 25 July 2025
  • My Mom Died is a heartbreaking and hilarious recounting of McCurdy’s struggles as a former child actor while dealing with her overbearing, domineering mother.
    Charley Ross, Glamour, 2 July 2025
Adjective
  • Call your insurance company and verify that the estimate is accurate to your policy.
    Nicole Villalpando, Austin American Statesman, 30 July 2025
  • Prices were accurate at the time of publication but may change.
    Cody Godwin, USA Today, 29 July 2025
Adjective
  • Christopher McDonald plays Happy’s comically villainous, arrogant rival Shooter McGavin, maestro of the finger guns.
    Skyler Trepel, EW.com, 25 July 2025
  • In addition to Sandler, the 2025 film also sees the return of several familiar faces, including Julie Bowen as Happy’s love interest, Virginia Venit; Christopher McDonald as Shooter McGavin, Happy’s arrogant nemesis; and Ben Stiller as Hal L., the orderly from Happy’s grandmother’s nursing home.
    Monica Mercuri, Forbes.com, 25 July 2025
Adjective
  • Our conclusion is based on a comprehensive analysis comparing CNC's current valuation with its operational performance in recent years and its historical and current financial health.
    Trefis Team, Forbes.com, 28 July 2025
  • The mini-deal will likely be transformed into a more comprehensive one by late fall.
    Devashish Mitra, Time, 28 July 2025

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Cite this Entry

“Authoritative.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/authoritative. Accessed 4 Aug. 2025.

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