confidence - Master This Word
Master this word with our 5-step learning method – Learn English in English
confidence Word Meanings
- a feeling of self-assurance
- a belief in one's abilities
- trust in someone or something
confidence Example Sentences
Example sentences are the start of understanding. Don't rush to memorize. First feel how the word works in a sentence.
confidence Phonetic & Pronunciation
UK
/ˈkɒnfɪdəns/
US
/ˈkɑnfɪdəns/
confidence Word Etymology
confide = with trust, fides = faith. Originated from Latin through Old French to English. Imagine a person confidently sharing their secrets with a friend, symbolizing deep trust.
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
Shoulders square, I lift the pen and set my gaze on the blank page. I push a line forward and watch it move under my control, adjusting my grip as I go. A steady breath settles my hand, and I keep writing, letting the ink guide a small, confident rhythm. Confidence grows not from a rule, but from these tiny motions I trust, turn by turn, when I face the next decision.
Real Context
Confidence is a noun describing a feeling of self-assurance, or trust in someone or something. In everyday use, we talk about confidence in our own abilities, confidence in a plan, or confidence that a friend will keep a secret. It can refer to internal certainty (self-confidence) or to the reliability of an external source (trust). Learners often confuse confidence with self-esteem or with faith in a person’s character. The word comes from confide (to share secrets with trust) and fides (trust, faith) via Latin and Old French into English. Common collocations include have confidence, regain confidence, and boost your confidence.
Usage Reminders
- - Distinguish between confidence in a person and confidence in a plan
- - Use have confidence in to express trust in something or someone you rely on
- - Pair confidence with actions that justify it, not with bragging
- - Do not mix up confidence with arrogance or boastfulness
- - Notice the difference between self-confidence (in yourself) and trust in others
- - Learn common collocations: gain confidence, lose confidence, boost confidence
Common Misconceptions
- Confusion with self-esteem as a synonym for confidence
- Believing confidence means arrogance or bragging
- Thinking confidence only matters in public speaking
- Confusing confidence with blind faith in people
- Using confidence without a clear object (wrong in 'confident')
Thinking Differences
English speakers typically separate self-belief (self-confidence) from trust in others (reliability). Learners often use confidence where trust or belief in a plan would be more natural, and they may skip the preposition in, which changes meaning.
Learning Tips
- Practice both self-confidence and trust in others with real-life examples
- Notice collocations: have confidence in, regain confidence, boost confidence
- Compare confidence with self-esteem to keep meanings straight
- Use contexts that are not about bragging or arrogance
- Listen for tone: confidence conveys belief without boasting
- Read and note common phrases and patterns
5-Step Learning Method - Learn English in English
Step 1: Meaning
What is the best definition of the word 'confidence'?
A.A feeling of self-assurance arising from one's abilities or qualities
B.A formal written promise agreeing to do something in the future
C.A small container for holding delicate items
D.A legal document transferring ownership of property
Step 2: Usage
Which sentence uses the word 'confidence' correctly?
A.She spoke with confidence during the interview.
B.They confidence the final results before counting votes.
C.The box of confidence was placed on the shelf.
D.I searched the confidence under the couch.
Step 3: Similar Words
Which word is most similar in meaning to 'confidence'?
A.self-assurance
B.timidity
C.mistrust
D.uncertainty
Step 4: Opposite Words
Which word is the opposite of 'confidence'?
A.assurance
B.doubt
C.arrogance
D.trust
Step 5: Mastery
Can you give a real-life scenario where you might use the word to describe how someone feels?
A.Explain how you would react when a friend breaks a promise.
B.List the tools you would bring on a camping trip to stay safe.
C.Describe a time you felt sure of your abilities before giving a presentation.
D.Describe how you organize your grocery list for the week.
Related Listening
🔥 Advanced
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