Believe Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
๐
believe
[bษชหliหv ]
Definitions
faith
Accept that (something) is true, especially without proof. Hold (something) as an opinion; think.
Synonyms
accept, assume, consider, trust.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| believe |
Use when you have confidence that something is true or you trust someoneโs words or actions without needing proof.
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| trust |
Use when you have strong confidence in the reliability or truthfulness of someone or something.
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| accept |
Use when agreeing to take something that is offered or recognizing something as correct or true with reluctance or approval.
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| consider |
Use when you are thinking carefully about something, especially when deciding or forming an opinion.
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| assume |
Use when you take something for granted without proof, often based on some sort of presumption or guess.
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Examples of usage
- I believe we should trust him.
- Do you believe in ghosts?
- She believes in the power of positive thinking.
religion
Have faith, confidence, or trust.
Synonyms
have confidence in, have faith in, trust in.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| believe |
Used when you think something is true or someone is telling the truth. It is a general term often applied in everyday conversations.
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| have faith in |
Used when you deeply believe in someone or something, often with a more emotional or spiritual undertone. The belief is usually strong and unwavering.
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| trust in |
Used when you rely on someone or something with a sense of security or dependability. Often implies a deeper, more personal level of confidence.
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| have confidence in |
Used in situations where you trust someoneโs abilities or judgement, often in a professional or skill-based context.
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Examples of usage
- Most of the population believes in God.
- She believes in the afterlife.
religion
Religious faith.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| believe |
Used when someone thinks something is true or real, often without complete proof.
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| faith |
Used to describe a deep trust or confidence in something, often with a religious or spiritual connotation.
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| conviction |
Implies a strong, firmly held belief, often accompanied by confidence and certainty.
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| religion |
Refers to an organized system of beliefs, practices, and worship associated with a particular set of doctrines.
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Examples of usage
- I have a strong belief in the power of prayer.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Psychology
- Research shows that belief can significantly affect our emotional and mental health, influencing happiness levels.
- Cognitive dissonance occurs when thereโs a conflict between what we believe and what we experience, often leading to changes in beliefs.
- Beliefs can be powerful motivators; they shape our goals, aspirations, and the way we approach challenges.
Culture
- Many cultures have stories that highlight the power of belief, like the proverb 'Where thereโs a will, thereโs a way.'
- Religious beliefs form the foundation of various practices and festivals around the world, uniting communities.
- In philosophy, particularly existentialism, belief plays a crucial role in defining oneโs purpose and existence.
Literature
- Famous literary works often explore themes of belief, such as faith and doubt, highlighting the human experience.
- In George Orwell's '1984', the manipulation of belief is central to the story, illustrating its power in society.
- Children's books frequently encourage belief in the impossible, like magic and adventures, fostering imagination.
Technology
- Technological advancements challenge beliefs, such as the idea of what is real with the rise of virtual reality.
- Startups often thrive on the belief that their innovations can change the world, driving entrepreneurship and investment.
- Artificial Intelligence is changing beliefs about creativity and intelligence, prompting discussions about what it means to be human.
Origin of 'believe'
Main points about word origin
- The word comes from the Old English 'beliefan', which means to hold dear.
- The root of this term is traced back to the Proto-Germanic word 'galaubjan', connected to the idea of trust.
- Related words in other languages share similar meanings, like 'creer' in Spanish, showing a common concept across cultures.
The word 'believe' originated from the Old English word 'belฤfan', which meant 'to have faith in'. Over time, the meaning of 'believe' has evolved to encompass the ideas of trust, faith, and conviction. Belief plays a crucial role in various aspects of human life, from religion to personal relationships. The concept of belief has been explored and debated by philosophers, theologians, and psychologists throughout history.
See also: belief, beliefs, believability, believable, believer, believers, disbelieve, disbeliever, disbelieving, nonbeliever, nonbelieving, unbelievability, unbelievable, unbelievably, unbelieving, unbelievingly.