The word “genuine” is often used to describe something that is real, honest, or true. But what if we want to express the opposite of genuine? In this short and simple article, you’ll learn the opposite words for genuine with their meanings and examples. This guide is written in easy English so that learners can quickly understand and use these words in daily conversation or writing.
What Does Genuine Mean?
The word genuine means real, true, or sincere. It describes something that is not fake or not copied.
Meaning: Real or authentic; not false or artificial.
Examples:
- Her smile was genuine, not forced.
- This ring is made of genuine gold.
Opposite for Genuine
The opposites of genuine describe things or people that are fake, false, dishonest, or not real.
Here is a list of common and useful opposite words for genuine:
| Opposite Word | Meaning | Example Sentence |
|---|---|---|
| Fake | Not real or true | He gave me a fake watch. |
| False | Not correct or true | She made a false claim. |
| Artificial | Made by people, not natural | The flowers were artificial, not real. |
| Imitation | A copy of something | This is an imitation leather bag. |
| Dishonest | Not truthful or fair | He was dishonest about his past. |
| Deceptive | Meant to trick or mislead | Her words were deceptive and confusing. |
| Insincere | Not expressing real feelings | His apology sounded insincere. |
| Bogus | Not genuine or real | The police found bogus documents. |
| Counterfeit | Made to look like the real thing | He was caught using counterfeit money. |
| Pretended | Not true; made to appear real | She gave a pretended smile. |
| Phoney | Not genuine; fake (informal) | Don’t trust that phoney salesman. |
| Fictitious | Made up or imaginary | The story was fictitious, not real. |
| Feigned | Pretended; not genuine | He showed feigned interest in the talk. |
| Sham | Something that is fake or not real | The competition turned out to be a sham. |
| Spurious | Not real or valid | The report contained spurious data. |
| Fraudulent | Involving deception or lies | They sold fraudulent products online. |
| Simulated | Made to look real but not real | The pilot trained in a simulated cockpit. |
| Mimicked | Copied without being real | The actor mimicked his teacher’s voice. |
| Pseudo | Pretending to be real or true | He gave a pseudo scientific theory. |
| Forged | Made to deceive or cheat | The signature was forged, not real. |
Genuine in Different Contexts
1. For People
When used for people, genuine means honest and sincere.
Example: She is a genuine friend who truly cares.
Opposite: Dishonest, Insincere, Deceptive
Example: He was insincere about his intentions.
2. For Objects or Things
When used for things, genuine means real or original.
Example: This is a genuine diamond.
Opposite: Fake, Imitation, Counterfeit
Example: The shop sold fake jewellery.
3. For Feelings or Emotions
When describing feelings, genuine means true and real emotion.
Example: Her genuine smile made everyone happy.
Opposite: Feigned, Pretended, Insincere
Example: He gave a feigned look of surprise.
Summary
| Word Type | Genuine Means | Opposite Words |
|---|---|---|
| Person | Honest and sincere | Dishonest, Insincere |
| Thing | Real and original | Fake, Counterfeit |
| Feeling | True and natural | Pretended, Feigned |
Sentences Using Opposites of Genuine
- The news turned out to be false, not genuine.
- He wore a fake smile to hide his anger.
- The artist sold imitation paintings in the market.
- Her emotions seemed insincere during the interview.
- They caught him using counterfeit notes.
- The story he told was completely fictitious.
- The flowers in the vase were artificial.
FAQs for Opposite of Genuine
What is the main opposite of genuine?
The most common opposite words are fake, false, and insincere.
Can genuine be used for people and objects both?
Yes, it can be used for both people and things depending on the meaning.
What is the opposite of a genuine smile?
Fake smile or pretended smile are common opposites.
What is the opposite of genuine love?
False love or insincere love can be used.
What is the opposite of genuine product?
Counterfeit, fake, or imitation product.
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