Credo: meaning, definitions and examples

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credo

[ˈkriːdəʊ ]

Definitions

^{Context #1 | Noun}

belief system

A creed or set of beliefs that guide someone's actions and decisions. It is often associated with religious beliefs but can also refer to a set of principles or values that a person or organization follows.

Synonyms

belief system, principles, values.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
credo	Typically used in a formal or religious context to describe a guiding statement of beliefs or philosophy. The monk lived by a strict credo of simplicity and humility
belief system	Refers to a collective set of beliefs held by an individual or a group, often in a religious or philosophical context. His belief system is a combination of traditional and modern ideas
principles	Often used to describe fundamental truths or propositions that serve as the foundation for a system of belief or behavior, not necessarily tied to religion. The company's guiding principles are integrity, quality, and innovation
values	Refers to the importance, worth, or usefulness of something which forms the basis for preferred actions. Often used in personal or cultural contexts. Honesty and kindness are core values that she holds dear

Examples of usage

My credo is to always treat others with kindness and respect.
The company's credo emphasizes honesty and integrity in all business dealings.

^{Context #2 | Noun}

philosophy

A statement of the beliefs or aims that guide someone's actions. It can also refer to a formal declaration of the beliefs of a religious organization.

Synonyms

declaration, motto, philosophy.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
credo	Used to refer to a statement of the beliefs or aims that guide someone's actions. This term can be used in personal contexts or formal declarations of belief. Her credo was to always treat others with kindness The company's credo emphasizes sustainability and innovation
philosophy	A theory or attitude that acts as a guiding principle for behavior. It is often used in a more general and abstract sense, applying to personal beliefs, corporate policies, or academic contexts. Her philosophy of life is to enjoy every moment The company's philosophy focuses on customer satisfaction and quality
motto	A short sentence or phrase chosen as encapsulating the beliefs or ideals guiding an individual, family, or institution. Often used in contexts related to branding, schools, or personal life goals. The school's motto is 'Knowledge is power' His personal motto is 'Never give up'
declaration	A formal announcement or statement, often used in official or public contexts. It can involve personal beliefs, intentions, or other significant information. The president's declaration outlined his plans for the coming year She made a declaration of her love for him in front of everyone

Examples of usage

The school's credo is to provide a supportive learning environment for all students.
She recited the creed of her faith with deep conviction.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

'Credo' comes from Latin, meaning 'I believe'.
The word has been used in religious contexts since the Middle Ages, especially in Christian liturgy.
Many phrases in English, like 'I believe' start from the same root as 'credo'.

Culture

In various religions, a credo often outlines essential beliefs, such as in the Nicene and Apostles’ Creeds for Christians.
Cultural movements often have pseudo-credos describing their core beliefs and values, shaping their identity.
The use of credos in philosophy can be found where thinkers define their fundamental beliefs or guiding principles.

Literature

Many authors and poets express their personal credos within their works, revealing their philosophies.
Famous literature often explores the conflict between different credos or belief systems, showcasing character struggles.
A credo can serve as a foundational theme in novels, influencing character development and plot.

Psychology

Psychologists explore how personal beliefs or credos impact decision-making and personality.
A person's credo can shape their worldview, influencing their reactions and interactions with others.
Understanding your own credo may contribute to improved mental health by fostering a stronger sense of identity.

Philosophy

In philosophy, a credo might articulate a person's ethical stance or viewpoint on life and existence.
Philosophers, like Descartes, famously stated 'Cogito, ergo sum' (I think, therefore I am), which acts as a personal credo regarding existence and thought.
The exploration of different credos invites discussions about meaning, purpose, and moral frameworks.

Translations

Translations of the word "credo" in other languages:

🇵🇹 credo

🇮🇳 मूल विश्वास

🇩🇪 Glaubensbekenntnis

🇮🇩 iman

🇺🇦 вірування

🇵🇱 credo

🇯🇵 信条 (しんじょう)

🇫🇷 crédo

🇪🇸 credo

🇹🇷 inanç

🇰🇷 신조

🇸🇦 عقيدة

🇨🇿 krédo

🇸🇰 krédo

🇨🇳 信条 (xìnjiào)

🇸🇮 krede

🇮🇸 trúarjátning

🇰🇿 сенім

🇬🇪 რწმენა

🇦🇿 inanc

🇲🇽 credo

Word Frequency Rank

Positioned at #24,688, this word is part of extensive vocabulary. It's relatively rare in general usage but may be important in specific fields or formal writing.

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24685 participative
24686 roundness
24687 terrify
24688 credo
24689 consign
24690 ultrasonography
24691 nullification
...