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.

“Delays only hurt vulnerable patients and their families, foster fraud and cause problems for legitimate operators that provide essential services, especially in rural and disadvantaged communities,” she said.

From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 17, 2026

The message shows familiarity with your résumé, and it bears the signature of a real recruiter—complete with a hyperlink to a legitimate LinkedIn profile.

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 16, 2026

That cracks are only now starting to show is a legitimate wonder.

From Slate • Apr. 14, 2026

"China will continue to take what is necessary to firmly defend Chinese citizens' legitimate and lawful rights and interests," she said.

From BBC • Apr. 8, 2026

It was an awkward but legitimate question for one Persian to ask another.

From "Darius the Great Is Not Okay" by Adib Khorram

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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