Business & Technical Writing/meaning of "authentic"

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Expert: - 1/5/2010


Question
Hello,
What is the meaning of authentic in the following sentence?
1. This restaurant serves authentic Italian food.


Answer
It means the food is identical to food that might be served in Italy. The dishes are traditional Italian dishes with the same ingredients, preparation methods, and service presentations. That said, of course, the claim may or may not be true. Also, you should consider that Italy has many regions with very different cuisines, especially varying from north to south. So "authentic Italian food" could mean almost anything.

Hope this helps.

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Dan Smith

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I have been a professional writer and editor for more than 30 years, taught speech and English composition at the university level, and have developed speech and English composition courses and seminars for businesses. I am experienced in editing a wide variety of materials, especially business, scientific, and other academic papers. I am familiar with all the major style guides.

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I have edited any number of graduate papers and other technical materials in such advanced fields as clinical psychology, civil and electrical engineering, and semiconductor fabrication. I have extensive experience in working with non-native English speakers.

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