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V2 Vocabulary Building Dictionary


apocryphal

adjective

Definition: 1. often considered to be true, but probably false, and of questionable authenticity; 2. having to do with the Apocrypha, disputed scriptural writings

Synonyms: spurious, questionable, dubious, false, unauthenticated, counterfeit, doubtful

Antonyms: true, accurate, correct

Tips: The Apocrypha is a section of the Old Testament which is of dubious origin, and thus, excluded from most versions of the Bible. In everyday conversation, apocryphal refers to something that is probably not true but is widely believed. In literature, apocrypha refers to works that purport to have been created by somebody other than the author, usually someone famous.

Usage Examples:

Some people believe that aliens landed in Roswell, New Mexico, but I think that story is apocryphal. (false, doubtful)

He secured a book deal when the apocryphal nature of his research provoked widespread debate among his colleagues. (questionable, dubious)

When John said that he believed in the Bible, I'm not sure he meant the apocryphal writings as well. (unauthenticated)

Most "rags-to-riches" tales turn out to be apocryphal. (false)


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