Definition of beliefnext

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

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 belief Every generation is hallmarked by common characteristics, meaning that boomers are bringing their own beliefs and values to the grandparenting game. Holly Garcia, Parents, 11 Jan. 2026 Decide what is worthy of your belief based on facts. Tribune Content Agency, Baltimore Sun, 11 Jan. 2026 Staying true to our belief in the value of in-person connection, three-quarters of this course will be offered virtually, with the culminating module hosted in Tulsa. Justin Harlan, Fortune, 11 Jan. 2026 Part of the yearning could be due to a belief that might not be true; seek within for clarity. Magi Helena, Dallas Morning News, 10 Jan. 2026 See All Example Sentences for belief
Recent Examples of Synonyms for belief
Noun
  • Corley’s most recent acting credit was The Ice Road in 2021.
    Nicole Briese, PEOPLE, 13 Jan. 2026
  • So give them credit on that in the second half.
    Gary Bedore, Kansas City Star, 12 Jan. 2026
Noun
  • But Jennings' liberal attitude toward the airing of his opinions, regardless of their content, almost cost him the job.
    Ryan Coleman, Entertainment Weekly, 9 Jan. 2026
  • Lawmakers critical of the military action argue the rationale in the opinion is inadequate for the situation and have demanded that it be made public.
    Caitlin Yilek, CBS News, 8 Jan. 2026
Noun
  • William James, the godfather of pragmatism, linked the value of faith to currency, spiritual virtue to utility.
    Literary Hub, Literary Hub, 15 Jan. 2026
  • As Mercury and Jupiter clash, someone challenges you to back up your faith with facts!
    USA TODAY, USA Today, 14 Jan. 2026
Noun
  • Food prices have been top of mind following a year of up and down tariffs and people losing SNAP benefits during the government shutdown amid growing economic concerns.
    Charlotte Observer, Charlotte Observer, 13 Jan. 2026
  • The shooting at Brown University and the deaths of two students that resulted will remain seared into the minds of Rhode Islanders for some time.
    Will Richmond, The Providence Journal, 12 Jan. 2026
Noun
  • These shows were built around heady concepts like a sequence, an axiom or the work of Pablo Picasso.
    Heather Bushman, IndyStar, 17 Nov. 2025
  • Don’t expect to beat the market One axiom of investing dictates that actively managed funds often underperform the market as a whole.
    Daniel de Visé, USA Today, 17 Nov. 2025
Noun
  • On one side, a lounge frames sweeping views of Las Vegas Boulevard through floor-to-ceiling windows; on the other, a sculptural bar in dark stone and metal sets the tone for hosting.
    David Morris, Travel + Leisure, 15 Jan. 2026
  • McCracken’s is the naughty older sister view of writing.
    Literary Hub, Literary Hub, 15 Jan. 2026
Noun
  • Early projections of $400 million might be a long shot, but an AAV of more than $30 million is a near certainty, and Tucker is seeking a 10-year contract.
    Steve Henson, Los Angeles Times, 12 Jan. 2026
  • But the void between certainty and hope, where the foreman ruled, troubled him.
    Literary Hub, Literary Hub, 12 Jan. 2026
Noun
  • He was also sentenced for a conviction of failure to appear in connection with his 2022 escape from house arrest that sparked an international manhunt.
    Alex Riggins, San Diego Union-Tribune, 14 Jan. 2026
  • The likelihood of conviction is minimal, given that the national impunity rate stands above 95 percent.
    Kevin Maurer, Rolling Stone, 13 Jan. 2026

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Cite this Entry

“Belief.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/belief. Accessed 19 Jan. 2026.

More from Merriam-Webster on belief

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