The phrase "give legitimacy" means to confer or establish authority, credibility, or authenticity. Synonyms for this phrase include "validate," "endorse," "ratify," "authorize," "accredit," "sanction," "affirm," "authenticate," and "acknowledge." "Validate" suggests a confirmation of something that is already accepted, while "endorse" and "sanction" both imply supporting or approving of something. "Authorize" and "accredit" both suggest giving official permission or recognition, while "ratify" indicates the formal confirmation of something. "Affirm" and "authenticate" both suggest confirming the truth or genuineness of something, while "acknowledge" implies recognizing something as true or valid. Overall, these synonyms convey a similar meaning to "give legitimacy" and can be used interchangeably in certain contexts.