Credulous: meaning, definitions and examples

This word is often used when someone is too ready to believe something, especially when there's not enough evidence. It's usually applied in somewhat formal or literary contexts and can carry a slightly negative connotation.

• The credulous audience believed every word of the fake news story.
• Despite the implausibility of the plan, her credulous nature made her follow without question.

Gullible is commonly used in everyday speech and has a negative connotation. It describes someone who is easily deceived or tricked due to their very trusting nature.

• He's so gullible, he believed the email scam was actually from his bank.
• It's easy to play pranks on him because he's so gullible.

Naive refers to someone who lacks experience and is too trusting, often used to describe people who are innocent or childlike in their perspective. It can be used either negatively or more sympathetically.

• Her naive outlook made her an easy target for manipulation.
• He's not naive, just young and still learning about the world.

Trustful is less commonly used and typically has a neutral or positive connotation. It describes someone who readily trusts others.

• She is trustful by nature, always giving people the benefit of the doubt.
• His trustful disposition helps him make friends easily, but it also means he gets hurt sometimes.