beliefs - Master This Word
Master this word with our 5-step learning method – Learn English in English
beliefs Word Meanings
- a strong feeling of certainty about something
- acceptance that something exists or is true
- confidence in something or someone
beliefs Example Sentences
Example sentences are the start of understanding. Don't rush to memorize. First feel how the word works in a sentence.
beliefs Phonetic & Pronunciation
UK
/bɪˈliːf/
US
/bɪˈlif/
beliefs Word Etymology
Root: be- = to be, lief = loved; Historical origin: Old English be-leaf, meaning to hold as dear. Memory image: Imagine a heart holding a cherished belief as if it were a glowing treasure.
Note 1: These definitions and etymologies are not standard dictionary definitions, but extended explanations provided to help with memorization and understanding of the actual application of words. Through this background information, we strive to make words more vivid and easier to understand, and help you remember their meanings in real life.
Note 2: LexiTalk designs the learning flow around the linguistics principle of “Comprehensible Input.” When learners encounter material that is slightly above their level but still understandable from context, the brain naturally absorbs the language. That’s why we keep every word inside authentic contexts, using examples and associations to help you understand it and use it flexibly.
Read the FAQ explanation of Comprehensible InputEnglish Brain Route
I settle my weight, push a foot against the floor and turn my attention toward a new idea. It moves across my mind, shifting shapes, and settles into a corner that feels steady. I sense the effort of choosing what to trust, a small change of belief that grows stronger as I test it with what I know. In daily life, belief becomes how I act—what I set as true enough to guide my steps, what I hold when doubts rise.
Real Context
Belief is a noun describing a mental attitude that something is true or real, often held with confidence even when proof is limited. It can be a firm conviction about a proposition, a general acceptance that something exists, or trust placed in a person, idea, or system. In daily speech, belief spans religious faith, personal opinions, and assumptions about how the world works. For learners, note that belief is about conviction, not certainty; you may believe something without knowing it for sure. Common collocations include hold a belief, have a belief in, strong belief, and shared belief.
Usage Reminders
- 1) Use belief with prepositions: belief in, hold a belief. 2) Distinguish belief from knowledge: you may believe but not know. 3) Choose conviction vs opinion for tone. 4) Watch collocations: strong belief, shared belief. 5) Related verbs: believe, trust, doubt.
Common Misconceptions
- Belief is the same as knowledge or fact.
- Belief must have evidence to be valid.
- Belief only relates to religion.
- Belief cannot change over time.
- To believe something means you are certain it is true.
Thinking Differences
Belief in English centers on a mental conviction about truth; learners often confuse belief with knowledge or with 'opinion.' Many languages distinguish belief in something (confidence in truth) from mere thinking or guessing, leading to mistakes when translating 'I believe' vs 'I think'.
Learning Tips
- Ask for the origin: belief vs conviction vs trust.
- Practice collocations: hold a belief, belief in, strong belief.
- Differentiate belief from knowledge: belief = conviction, not proof.
- Use in reports: The belief that...
- Contrast belief with opinion: I believe vs I think.
- Explore nuanced synonyms: faith, trust, conviction.
5-Step Learning Method - Learn English in English
Step 1: Meaning
What is the meaning of the word 'beliefs'?
A.Actions taken in a hurry
B.Ideas accepted as true or held in confidence
C.Places where people gather
D.Types of music played in a concert
Step 2: Usage
Choose the sentence that uses 'beliefs' correctly.
A.His beliefs were very late to arrive.
B.They walked beliefs down the street.
C.She holds strong beliefs about the environment.
D.The beliefs of the team were discussed.
Step 3: Similar Words
Which word is most similar to 'beliefs'?
A.colors
B.birds
C.convictions
D.styles
Step 4: Opposite Words
What is the opposite of 'beliefs'?
A.doubts
B.festivals
C.hobbies
D.seasons
Step 5: Mastery
Can you think of a real-life scenario that involves beliefs?
A.People often discuss their beliefs during religious gatherings.
B.He loves to ride his bike in the morning.
C.Cooking can be a fun activity on weekends.
D.Streetlights make it safer to drive at night.
Related Listening
🔥 Advanced
Want to practice more words?
Download LexiTalk app for personalized learning experience
Download App