credible - Master This Word
Master this word with our 5-step learning method – Learn English in English
credible Word Meanings
- believable or trustworthy
- capable of being believed
- able to be trusted or relied on
credible Example Sentences
Example sentences are the start of understanding. Don't rush to memorize. First feel how the word works in a sentence.
credible Phonetic & Pronunciation
UK
/ˈkrɛd.ɪ.bəl/
US
/ˈkrɛd.ɪ.bəl/
credible Word Etymology
cred- = believe + -ible = able to be. Originated from Latin 'credibilis' → Old French 'credible' → English. Imagine a person holding out a certificate of authenticity, proving their trustworthiness.
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 tilt my glance toward a report, hold the page flat, and push aside stray doubts as I check each line. The numbers add up, the wording stays steady, and I shift from suspicion to trust. It feels like steering a small boat through rough water—steady hands, slower breath, a decision to trust what I’m seeing. When the page finally feels solid, I decide to move forward with what looks credible.
Real Context
Credible means believable or trustworthy, something that you can accept as true or reliable. It often describes a source, evidence, or a person whose statements seem honest and well supported. Native speakers use credible to contrast with flimsy or dubious claims. In writing and debate, you might say a credible witness or a credible plan; you might use credibly as an adverb. The Latin root cred- means to believe, and -ible means able to be. The sense is that the claim can be believed only if it is backed by proof, consistency, or authority. Learners should watch for common collocations like credible source and note that some contexts require credible rather than creditable.
Usage Reminders
- 5 short bullet-style sentences separated by
- Use with sources (credible source, credible evidence).
- Don't apply to moods or opinions.
- Be mindful of formality in academic writing.
- Distinguish credible from reliable in contexts of evidence.
- Use credibly as the adverb form when describing how something is stated.
- Remember the noun is credibility.
Common Misconceptions
- Credible means famous or prestigious.
- Believable without evidence equals credible.
- Credible only describes people, not sources or ideas.
- Credible and credible-looking are the same in every context.
- The opposite of credible is unbelievable.
Thinking Differences
Explain to an English speaker (meta, keep short)
Learning Tips
- Use with sources (credible source, credible evidence).
- Don’t apply to moods or opinions.
- Be mindful of formality in academic writing.
- Distinguish credible from reliable in contexts of evidence.
- Use credibly as the adverb form when describing how something is stated.
- Remember the noun is credibility.
5-Step Learning Method - Learn English in English
Step 2: Usage
In which sentence is 'credible' used correctly?
A.He told a credible joke at the party.
B.She bought a credible book for her friend.
C.The witness gave a credible testimony in court.
D.The teacher credible the students for their hard work.
Step 3: Similar Words
Choose the synonym for 'credible':
A.Suspect
B.Reliable
C.Dubious
D.Unreliable
Step 4: Opposite Words
Choose the opposite of 'credible':
A.Tricky
B.Incredible
C.Questionable
D.Dependable
Step 5: Mastery
In what real-life situation is 'credible' important?
A.Cooking a meal
B.Writing a research paper
C.Playing video games
D.Watering plants
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