Legitimate
easyPositive toneluh-JIT-uh-mit
adjective
Definition
Conforming to the law or rules; genuine; valid
Memory hook
LEGIT-IMATE: totally LEGIT — conforming to law, rules, or standards; genuine.
Word roots
Learning roots unlocks whole word families. Study common GRE root words.
Examples
“The company had legitimate concerns about the contract.”
“Her claim to the throne was considered legitimate.”
Test yourself
Fill in the blank with the right word:
“The company had ______ concerns about the contract.”
Show answer
legitimate
Synonyms
Antonyms
Categories
GRE Tip
Legitimate is a easy-difficulty GRE word. On the GRE, you might see it paired with synonyms like "lawful" or "valid" in Sentence Equivalence questions. Look for contrast clues (however, despite, although) that signal the opposite meaning. Words like "illegitimate".
Related GRE Words
authentic
Of undisputed origin; genuine and not counterfeit
sincere
Free from pretense or deceit; genuine
bona fide
Genuine; real; made in good faith without fraud or deceit
veritable
Being truly or very much so; genuine
warranted
justified or called for by the circumstances
illicit
Forbidden by law, rules, or custom; illegal
Master legitimate and 1,000+ GRE words
Learn through stories, practice with real GRE questions, and never forget with spaced repetition.