We explain what it means for something to be genuine and what the characteristics of a genuine person are. Also, how did the term originate?
What does genuine mean?
something genuine It is something authentic, original and legitimate, that is, typical of the nature of the thing . For example, a genuine diamond It is one that has not been adulterated and that comes from nature; and also a genuine friendship It is one that is true, sincere, free of pretense and manipulation.
The term “genuine” comes from Latin genuinus derived from genus (“lineage”). In Ancient Rome, this was the name given to legitimate children, recognized by their father through a very specific ritual: the child was placed by the mother at her feet and the father picked him up and sat him on his knees as a sign of recognition. This is relevant because the Latin word comes, in turn, from the Indo-European word genu– which means, precisely, “knee.”
In this way, we understand today how genuine to everything that exists according to its nature, or that is characteristic of it: exactly the opposite of false, simulated, pretended or artificial . Therefore, it is considered in most cultures as a value or desirable trait.
Characteristics of a genuine person
The adjective genuine is used, by extension of its meaning, to refer to sincere, honest people who show themselves as they are. These are people who are usually highly appreciated, since they are reliable and predictable.
A genuine person is characterized, in general terms, by the following:
- He is true to his word . Genuine people do not usually break their promises or lie about what they think, so they rarely engage in hypocrisy or falsehood. If they say they like something, it's because it really is.
- Has good self-esteem . Genuine people show themselves as they are, without hiding or pretending to be someone else, and that usually requires solid self-esteem. This also makes them less vulnerable to criticism.
- Commits to herself . Genuine people rarely get involved with something they don't believe in, so their commitment is reserved for those and those who truly have their approval. And, first of all, his commitment is to his own way of being.
- She is open and communicative . Genuine people usually say what they think and usually show their interiority openly to those who deserve it. With them it is easy to negotiate and reach agreements, since they usually know themselves well and know what they want.
- He is not afraid of rejection . Genuine people are not indifferent to rejection and criticism, but neither do they live to seek the approval of others. In that sense, they know how to give fair value to the opinions of others, whether it is critical or complimentary.
References
- “Genuino, na” in the Dictionary of the Language of the Royal Spanish Academy.
- “Etymology of Genuino” in the Online Spanish Etymological Dictionary.
- “What are genuine people like?” in Forbes Spain.
