bona fides
[ boh-nuh-fahy-deez, boh-nuh-fahydz; Latin boh-nah fee-des ]
/ ˈboʊ nə ˈfaɪ diz, ˈboʊ nəˌfaɪdz; Latin ˈboʊ nɑ ˈfi dɛs /
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noun
(italics)Latin.(used with a singular verb) good faith; absence of fraud or deceit; the state of being exactly as claims or appearances indicate: The bona fides of this contract is open to question.Compare mala fides.
(sometimes italics)(used with a plural verb) the official papers, documents, or other items that prove authenticity, legitimacy, etc., as of a person or enterprise; credentials: All our bona fides are on file with the SEC.
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Origin of bona fides
First recorded in 1835–40; from Latin bona fidēs “good faith”
usage note for bona fides
Bona fides is from the singular Latin phrase bona fidēs , meaning “good faith,” and has the same meaning in English. But partially because its -es ending makes bona fides look and sound like a plural, it has developed the plural sense “credentials.” This plural use, although criticized by some usage guides, has been increasing in all varieties of speech and writing.
The adjective bona fide (without the “s”) is from a Latin phrase meaning “in good faith, with good faith.” It was originally used adverbially in this sense, but is now mainly an adjective. The meaning “authentic, true” is a later development sometimes denounced as sloppy usage, but its use is bona fide and widespread.
The adjective bona fide (without the “s”) is from a Latin phrase meaning “in good faith, with good faith.” It was originally used adverbially in this sense, but is now mainly an adjective. The meaning “authentic, true” is a later development sometimes denounced as sloppy usage, but its use is bona fide and widespread.
WORDS THAT MAY BE CONFUSED WITH bona fides
bona fide, bona fides (see usage note at the current entry)Dictionary.com Unabridged
Based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2022
How to use bona fides in a sentence
British Dictionary definitions for bona fides
bona fides
/ (ˈbəʊnə ˈfaɪdiːz) /
noun
law good faith; honest intention
Word Origin for bona fides
Latin
Collins English Dictionary - Complete & Unabridged 2012 Digital Edition
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