Synonym Chooser

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

Some common synonyms of belief are credence, credit, and faith. While all these words mean "assent to the truth of something offered for acceptance," belief may or may not imply certitude in the believer.

my belief that I had caught all the errors

When is credence a more appropriate choice than belief?

While in some cases nearly identical to belief, credence suggests intellectual assent without implying anything about grounds for assent.

a theory now given credence by scientists

When can credit be used instead of belief?

Although the words credit and belief have much in common, credit may imply assent on grounds other than direct proof.

gave full credit to the statement of a reputable witness

In what contexts can faith take the place of belief?

While the synonyms faith and belief are close in meaning, faith almost always implies certitude even where there is no evidence or proof.

an unshakable faith in God

Examples of belief in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web Embedded in Limitless Innovation’s success is the fundamental belief in the power of human connection. Kyle J. Russell, USA TODAY, 5 Oct. 2024 That could lead to a belief that they are not supported by their university—and possibly a decision to begin applying for jobs elsewhere. Bykatie Langin, science.org, 4 Oct. 2024 From childhood we are trained to follow societal beliefs in order to exist. Naman Ramachandran, Variety, 4 Oct. 2024 This is a core belief at my company: Far from a simple transitory space, the airport lounge can become a destination in itself. Pascal Bélanger, Forbes, 25 Sep. 2024 See all Example Sentences for belief 

These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'belief.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.

Thesaurus Entries Near belief

Cite this Entry

“Belief.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/belief. Accessed 21 Oct. 2024.

More from Merriam-Webster on belief

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