Autentyczny

Autentyczny is an adjective in Polish that describes something genuine, real, or original. It is used for objects, documents, information, performances, and styles to signal that they correspond to an original source or to reality. In everyday language it can also convey credibility or sincerity, as in describing a person or a portrayal as authentic.

Etymology and related forms: The term comes to Polish from Latin authenticus, likely via French authentique or directly through Latin-influenced routes, ultimately from Greek authenticikos. The root is connected with the idea of being official or original. From autentyczny derive the noun autentyczność (authenticity) and the adverb autentycznie.

Usage and nuances: Autentyczny emphasizes conformity with the original or with credible sources, rather than simply being true in a general sense. It is commonly used with documents (autentyczny podpis), sources (autentyczne źródła), objects (autentyczny produkt), or experiences (autentyczny występ). In contrast to prawdziwy, which can mean merely true or real, autentyczny often implies genuineness, originality, or credibility connected to origin or authority. In marketing or cultural discourse, autentyczny is a valued trait but can become vague if overused.

Synonyms and contrasts: Common synonyms include prawdziwy, rzeczywisty, wiarygodny; contrasting terms include fałszywy, sfałszowany, podrabiany. Typical phrases: autentyczne źródła, autentyczny charakter, autentyczny styl. Autentyczność odnosi się do ogólnej cechy bycia prawdziwym i wiarygodnym, zarówno w kontekście materialnym, jak i interpersonalnym.