original
/əˈrɪdʒɪnəl/existing since the beginning; earliest or first of its kind
This is the original recipe from my grandmother.
This is the earliest version of the recipe passed down from my grandmother.
The original plan was to build a bridge, but they changed it to a tunnel.
The first proposed plan involved building a bridge, but it was later altered to a tunnel.
Often used to refer to the first version of something before modifications or copies were made.
authentic; not a copy or imitation
This painting is an original by Van Gogh.
This artwork is an authentic piece created by Van Gogh himself.
She bought an original 1960s dress at the vintage store.
She purchased an authentic dress from the 1960s at the vintage shop.
Used to emphasize that something is genuine and not a reproduction.
creative or inventive; not derived from something else
His original idea for the project was groundbreaking.
His innovative concept for the project was revolutionary.
She wrote an original novel that became a bestseller.
She authored an original book that gained widespread popularity.
Used to describe something that is unique and not copied from another source.
Collocations
Related Phrases
💡Pro Tip
Distinguishing between 'original' and 'authentic'
'Original' can refer to the first or earliest version of something, while 'authentic' emphasizes that something is genuine and not a copy. For example, 'This is the original manuscript' refers to the first version, while 'This is an authentic Van Gogh painting' emphasizes that it is not a forgery.
⚡Gold Rule
Use 'original' to emphasize uniqueness
When describing something as unique or inventive, 'original' is often the best choice. For example, 'She came up with an original solution to the problem' highlights the creativity of her approach.
📖Word Origin
From Middle English 'original', from Old French 'original', from Latin 'originalis', meaning 'first, earliest, original', from 'origo' meaning 'beginning, source'.
📝Usage Notes
The word 'original' can be used as an adjective to describe something as the first or earliest of its kind, authentic, or creative. It can also be used as a noun to refer to the first or earliest version of something.