Legitimate

adj.thoughtful, capableprofessional

What it means

Supported by valid rules, sound reasons, or authentic standing.

Reach for it when affirming that a concern, authority, business, or claim merits recognition

Fatigue was a legitimate reason to postpone the mountain crossing.

everyday
genuine
the concern or object is real rather than fabricated
not when Genuine does not establish legal or procedural standing.
everyday
proper
fitness under accepted procedure is the point
not when Proper may reflect custom rather than a truly legitimate basis.
warm
reasonable
fair-minded people could accept the basis
not when Reasonable is weaker when formal authorization must be shown.
professional
authentic
verified origin or identity is central
not when Authentic fits objects and expression better than institutional authority.
professional
valid
the claim or document meets relevant requirements
not when Valid may be technically correct without being reasonable or authentic.
formal
bona fide
technical language for good-faith genuineness is suitable
not when Bona fide can sound legalistic in personal reassurance.
formal
justified
evidence or circumstances support the action
not when Justified may describe a single act without confirming legitimacy of the actor.
formal
lawful
legal permission is the precise issue
not when A lawful decision can still lack a legitimate public purpose.

legitimate concern
Noise from the damaged bearing was a legitimate concern.
legitimate claim
The receipts supported her legitimate claim for reimbursement.
legitimate authority
The treaty recognized the council as the legitimate authority.

The definition and the example on this page are written here. The dictionaries above ground which meaning is being described, not the wording.