Synonym Chooser

How is the word belief different from other nouns like it?

Some common synonyms of belief are credence, credit, and faith. While all these words mean "assent to the truth of something offered for acceptance," belief may or may not imply certitude in the believer.

my belief that I had caught all the errors

When is credence a more appropriate choice than belief?

While in some cases nearly identical to belief, credence suggests intellectual assent without implying anything about grounds for assent.

a theory now given credence by scientists

When can credit be used instead of belief?

Although the words credit and belief have much in common, credit may imply assent on grounds other than direct proof.

gave full credit to the statement of a reputable witness

In what contexts can faith take the place of belief?

While the synonyms faith and belief are close in meaning, faith almost always implies certitude even where there is no evidence or proof.

an unshakable faith in God

Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of belief Keep in mind that Savannah Chrisley also spoke at the Republican National Convention (RNC) last July, arguing Trump and her parents have been targeted for their conservative beliefs. Cate Martel, The Hill, 28 May 2025 The speakers all said Milgrim’s commitment to Israel, and to acting on her beliefs, ran deep. Philissa Cramer, Sun Sentinel, 28 May 2025 Like most water bearers, Charlotte does not veer far from her beliefs and aims to convince people to stand on her soapbox. Lisa Stardust, People.com, 28 May 2025 Online reactions were swift and heated, with many expressing their belief that Lamar had been unfairly overlooked. Preezy Brown, VIBE.com, 27 May 2025 See All Example Sentences for belief
Recent Examples of Synonyms for belief
Noun
  • Lawmakers deserve credit for enacting it — and for holding the line through tough years.
    Chicago Tribune, Chicago Tribune, 28 May 2025
  • These discrepancies may arise from uncleared cash transactions, missing invoices, bill credits, or inventory adjustments.
    David Moon, Forbes.com, 28 May 2025
Noun
  • In my opinion, using AI agents to rethink the creation, delivery and scaling of value is more effective than simply viewing them as efficiency tools.
    Umair Javed, Forbes.com, 21 May 2025
  • The court previously annulled the 2024 presidential election, citing claims that Russia bolstered the online profile and public opinion of independent right-wing candidate Călin Georgescu, who won the preliminary round.
    Timothy Nerozzi, The Washington Examiner, 21 May 2025
Noun
  • Four months into his administration, their faith is being tested.
    Daniel Byman, The Atlantic, 24 May 2025
  • Leo’s American identity-at a time when two American leaders embody opposing visions of democracy-places him at the intersection of a deepening global struggle over democracy, nationalism, and faith.
    Emmett Coyne, The Hill, 23 May 2025
Noun
  • The best way to overcome a year of disappointment is, of course, to challenge again, which is precisely the thought on Arteta’s mind.
    Zak Garner-Purkis, Forbes.com, 29 May 2025
  • The thought of sitting out spring practices never crossed star running back Kyren Williams’ mind, despite an ongoing contract negotiation between his representatives and the Los Angeles Rams.
    Jourdan Rodrigue, New York Times, 29 May 2025
Noun
  • And so, with gold on a steep upward trajectory: The following chart reflects my thinking, based on these axioms: Tension is going to increase dramatically—even from current levels.
    Clem Chambers, Forbes.com, 11 Apr. 2025
  • But the soul of the Scorpion was not easily vanquished, proving the axiom that driving a slow car fast is better than driving a fast car slow.
    Robert Ross, Robb Report, 4 Apr. 2025
Noun
  • Scenic hiking trails weave through quiet valleys, offering breathtaking views of wildlife in their natural habitat.
    Carlsen Jes, Travel + Leisure, 1 June 2025
  • Visitors can climb the tower for panoramic views of the Manhattan skyline, explore rooms restored to reflect 19th-century lighthouse life, and unwind with their picnic in a shaded pavilion with unbeatable views.
    Staff report, Hartford Courant, 1 June 2025
Noun
  • This unexpected approach builds resilience for complex, subjective tasks where certainty isn’t always possible. - Jagadish Gokavarapu, Wissen Infotech 17.
    Expert Panel®, Forbes.com, 29 May 2025
  • As of now, there is no certainty about what will happen to him or the rest of the detainees in the Terrorism Confinement Center (Cecot) prison.
    Uriel Blanco, CNN Money, 28 May 2025
Noun
  • Weir was confused by the man’s unusual conviction, though.
    Louise Erdrich, New Yorker, 25 May 2025
  • Gutierrez was one of three people charged in Hutchins’ death on the movie set south of Santa Fe, N.M., but the only one who received a felony conviction.
    Meg James, Los Angeles Times, 25 May 2025

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Belief.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/belief. Accessed 4 Jun. 2025.

More from Merriam-Webster on belief

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!