Genuine
/ˈdʒɛn.ju.ɪn/
adjectiveB1
Definition
Genuine describes something that is real, true, or honest. It means the thing or person is exactly what they appear to be, not fake or copied. For example, a genuine smile is a real smile, not a fake one.
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See It in Action
Real and authentic, not fake or copied
- •This watch is made of genuine leather.
- •She gave a genuine apology for her mistake.
- •The painting is a genuine Picasso, not a copy.
Honest and sincere in feelings or behavior
- •He showed genuine interest in my story.
- •Her smile was genuine, not forced.
- •They have a genuine friendship that lasts many years.
Make It Stick
- ✓Think of "genuine" like "real" (A1 word), but it also means honest or true, not just existing
- ✓Picture someone smiling with their whole face and eyes, showing true happiness, not just pretending
- ✓It feels warm and trustworthy, like when a friend sincerely cares about you
- ✓Sounds like "GEN-you-in" → imagine a person named "Gen" who is always honest and real with you
- ✓Think of a diamond: a genuine diamond shines naturally, not like a fake stone that only looks shiny
- ✓NOT like "fake" (something made to look real but is false), "genuine" means the true original
- ✓NOT like "pretend" (acted or not real), "genuine" means honest and sincere from inside
- ✓NOT just "real" (can mean existing), "genuine" adds the idea of truth and honesty
Try Other Words
- •Authentic: truly what it is claimed to be (Use when emphasizing originality or official quality)
- •Sincere: honest and without pretending (Use when focusing on feelings or expressions)
- •True: in agreement with fact or reality (Use for facts or statements that are correct)
- •Real: existing or happening (Use in everyday situations for something not fake)
Unboxing
- •Word parts: from Latin "genuinus" meaning "innate, natural, native"
- •Etymology: Comes from Latin "genuinus," related to "genu" meaning "knee," originally meaning "natural, innate"
- •Historical development: The word evolved to mean something natural, original, and honest rather than fake or false
- •Modern usage: Used to describe things or people that are honest, original, or true in quality or feeling
Reflect & Connect
•How can you tell if someone's feelings or actions are genuine or not?
•Why is it important to be genuine in your relationships with others?
Fill in the blanks
1.A genuine smile usually shows ___ happiness, not just a polite face.
2.When buying a watch, you want to be sure it is ___ leather, not imitation.
3.She gave a genuine apology because she truly ___ sorry.
4.Unlike a fake friend, a genuine friend will always ___ you.
5.The artist’s work is genuine, so it was made by the ___ person, not a copy.
6.People often trust someone who speaks in a genuine and ___ way.
7.A genuine reaction comes from inside and is not ___ or forced.