Naively: meaning, definitions and examples

Similar to 'naively', this should be used in contexts where the person is inexperienced or lacks understanding, often leading to unrealistic assumptions.

• He pursued his dreams naively, without considering the difficulties he might face.
• She spoke naively about the complexities of the issue.

Used when someone acts without any intention to deceive or harm, often unaware of the situation's full context.

• The child innocently asked why the sky is blue.
• She smiled innocently, not knowing she was the subject of a prank.

Best used to describe someone who is willing to rely on another person or situation, showing a great deal of faith or confidence.

• The dog looked up trustingly at its owner.
• She handed over her passport trustingly to the airline staff.

This term is best used when depicting someone who is too willing to believe things without sufficient evidence, often resulting in being easily deceived. It has a negative connotation.

• He credulously accepted the stranger's story without verifying any details.
• They listened credulously to the fake news.

This word can be used similarly to 'naively,' often to describe a lack of worldly wisdom but with a bit more focus on the pure intentions behind the lack of knowledge.

• The child explained the situation naively, not grasping the full extent of the problem
• Naively, she trusted everyone she met on her travels

This word is suitable when describing someone who is acting in a way that is immature or inappropriate for their age, often in a pejorative sense.

• She rolled her eyes childishly during the serious discussion
• His childishly rude behavior embarrassed his friends

This word is usually used to describe something done without complexity, in a straightforward or uncomplicated manner.

• She answered the question simply, without overcomplicating it
• He lived his life simply, focusing on what made him truly happy

This word is appropriate when someone acts without knowing the potential consequences, usually without any ill intentions.

• He smiled innocently, not realizing the trouble he was causing
• She asked the question innocently, unaware of its sensitive nature