credulity - Master This Word
Master this word with our 5-step learning method – Learn English in English
credulity Word Meanings
- Tendency to believe things too easily without enough evidence
- Willingness to be deceived or to accept statements at face value
- State of gullibility or naive trust in others
credulity Example Sentences
Example sentences are the start of understanding. Don't rush to memorize. First feel how the word works in a sentence.
credulity Phonetic & Pronunciation
UK
/krɛˈdjuː.lɪ.ti/
US
/krɛˈdjuː.lɪ.ti/
credulity Word Etymology
(a) Root: credul- from Latin credulus, meaning believing, with suffix -ity; (b) History: Latin credulitas from credulus via Old French credulité into English credulity; (c) Memory: imagine a person at a market who trusts every flashy claim and hands over money to every seller because they believe what they are told.
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 InputReal Context
Credulity is the tendency to believe what someone says with little or no evidence, and to accept statements at face value. It describes a disposition to be easily convinced, sometimes leading to gullibility or being misled. People may show credulity when they rely on persuasive stories, bright claims, or rumors rather than on careful verification. In everyday life, credulity can range from accepting a harmless compliment to falling for a sophisticated scam; the key idea is a bias toward trust rather than healthy skepticism. Understanding credulity helps learners recognize contrasts with skepticism, critical thinking, and the value of checking sources before believing.
Usage Reminders
- Be aware that credulity describes a tendency, not a value judgment about all trust.
- Distinguish healthy trust from gullible belief.
- Always look for evidence and verify sources before accepting claims.
- Beware persuasive language and sensational headlines.
- Practice healthy skepticism to reduce being misled.
Common Misconceptions
- Credulity means you believe everything you hear.
- Credulity equals naivety in every context.
- Being credulous means you cannot think critically.
- You are either credulous or you are never misled.
- Credulity is always harmful.
Thinking Differences
Meta note for English speakers: in English, credulity is a fixed noun describing a bias toward trust that can vary in intensity from slight to pronounced; learners should contrast it with skepticism and verify sources.
Learning Tips
- Compare credulity with skepticism in everyday situations
- Practice asking for evidence before accepting claims
- Check sources and corroborate information with multiple references
- Notice persuasive language and avoid jumping to conclusions
- Keep a quick mental checklist: Who, What, Why, Evidence, Source
- Reflect on past gullible moments to learn better habits
5-Step Learning Method - Learn English in English
Step 1: Meaning
Which best defines the word 'credulity'?
A.the quality of being careful and skeptical about claims
B.a readiness to believe things too readily or without sufficient evidence
C.the ability to persuade others through argument
D.a tendency to hide one's true feelings
Step 2: Usage
Which sentence uses 'credulity' correctly?
A.Con artists exploit people's credulity by telling elaborate lies to gain their trust.
B.Her credulity nature made her the most reliable employee in the office.
C.The credulity painting was hung in the town hall as a symbol of progress.
D.They credulity accepted every suggestion without discussion.
Step 3: Similar Words
Which word is most similar in meaning to 'credulity'?
A.doubt
B.caution
C.gullibility
D.resilience
Step 4: Opposite Words
Which word is the opposite of 'credulity'?
A.naivete
B.gullibility
C.skepticism
D.credence
Step 5: Mastery
Can you think of a real-life scenario that shows someone displaying this trait?
A.A scientist repeats an experiment many times before accepting a surprising result.
B.A person donates money to an unknown online fundraiser without checking whether it is legitimate.
C.A judge requires corroborating evidence before giving weight to a witness's testimony.
D.A reader compares multiple sources and questions any unsupported claims.
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