Synonym Chooser

How is the word credence different from other nouns like it?

Some common synonyms of credence are belief, credit, and faith. While all these words mean "assent to the truth of something offered for acceptance," credence suggests intellectual assent without implying anything about grounds for assent.

a theory now given credence by scientists

When is it sensible to use belief instead of credence?

In some situations, the words belief and credence are roughly equivalent. However, belief may or may not imply certitude in the believer.

my belief that I had caught all the errors

When is credit a more appropriate choice than credence?

The words credit and credence are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, credit may imply assent on grounds other than direct proof.

gave full credit to the statement of a reputable witness

Where would faith be a reasonable alternative to credence?

The meanings of faith and credence largely overlap; however, faith almost always implies certitude even where there is no evidence or proof.

an unshakable faith in God

Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of credence This journey just adds to credence to the belief that the future of transportation is electric. New Atlas, 29 Mar. 2025 As a result, this index no longer has much credence among economists and forecasters. Robert Barone, Forbes, 25 Feb. 2025 Records obtained and reviewed by the Orlando Sentinel appear to lend credence to some of the arguments made in the filing regarding the activities involving Eboni Beauty Academy. Ryan Gillespie, The Orlando Sentinel, 2 June 2025 This is the reason to take away their benefits due to their economic condition – lending credence to the stereotype that the GOP is willing to take from the poor to give to the rich. Gary Franks, Hartford Courant, 24 May 2025 See All Example Sentences for credence
Recent Examples of Synonyms for credence
Noun
  • The findings show a growing generational divide in workplace confidence, and these fears are not necessarily unfounded.
    Aliss Higham, MSNBC Newsweek, 6 July 2025
  • Full of confidence and eager to prove the worth of his colt, the veteran conditioner brilliantly prepared Forever Young for another run on American soil in the 2024 Breeders’ Cup Classic.
    Danny Brewer, Forbes.com, 6 July 2025
Noun
  • Grow by leaving awesome LinkedIn comments Identify your strongest beliefs Your commenting strategy needs a theme.
    Jodie Cook, Forbes.com, 2 July 2025
  • Drilled into me back then was the belief that putting out big bestsellers, no matter the style or substance, would always be a net positive.
    Maris Kreizman July 1, Literary Hub, 1 July 2025
Noun
  • Operational excellence matters, but what sets leaders apart is recovery: fast, proactive and rooted in consumer trust.
    Footwear News, Footwear News, 10 July 2025
  • Slim majorities of California voters had little or no trust that Gov. Gavin Newsom and the state Legislature act in the best interest of the public.
    Los Angeles Times, Los Angeles Times, 10 July 2025
Noun
  • The tax break, which provides a $7,500 for new EVs and a $4,000 credit for used EVs, is credited with helping make electric vehicles more affordable for many buyers.
    Alain Sherter, CBS News, 14 July 2025
  • The credits — worth up to $7,500 and $4,000 for purchases of new and used EVs, respectively — will disappear after Sept. 30.
    Jamie L. LaReau, Freep.com, 14 July 2025
Noun
  • Reagan restored the country’s faith after the national traumas of the Vietnam era and won passage of a significant tax reform bill and a major immigration measure, though his efforts to tame mounting federal deficits proved largely unsuccessful.
    Carl Leubsdorf, Mercury News, 12 July 2025
  • To all my babies that are listening to this one, big up yourself always because faith and hard work toward your vision will eventually place your dreams at your feet.
    Matthew Strauss, Pitchfork, 11 July 2025

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Cite this Entry

“Credence.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/credence. Accessed 18 Jul. 2025.

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