Does the hadith scholar's statement regarding a hadith, "Its chain of narration is sound," mean that it is authentic?

The questioner : Does the hadith scholar's statement regarding a hadith, "Its chain of narration is sound," mean that it is authentic?

The Shaykh : The terms "sound," "strong," and "good" are expressions that indicate the grade of hasan (good) and above. They signify this level and anything higher, without specific definition or explanation. From my experience, I know that when a hadith scholar says, "Its chain of narration is sound," or "Its chain of narration is good or strong," he does not say "hasan" (good), nor does he say "sahih" (authentic). This is because if he says "hasan," it is possible that it is actually sahih, and if he says "sahih," it is possible that it is actually hasan. I do not have a precise study at hand; therefore, he is cautious about making a precise ruling and says, "Its chain of narration is sound, strong, or good." It is possible that it is hasan, and it is possible that it is sahih.