Credible

Part of Speech

Adjective

Pronunciation

/ˈkrɛdɪbəl/

Definitions

• Credible (adjective): Able to be believed or trusted; worthy of trust or confidence.
• Credible (adjective): Having qualities that make something believable, reliable, or convincing.

Usage Examples

• Her testimony was deemed credible by the jury, which led to a conviction.
• The scientist presented credible evidence that supported the theory.
• He is a credible source for information on the subject.

Etymology

The word "credible" comes from the Latin word "credibilis," meaning "that can be believed," from "credere," meaning "to believe." It entered the English language in the 16th century and has since been used to describe people, information, or sources that are deemed trustworthy and believable.

Synonyms

• Trustworthy
• Reliable
• Believable
• Convincing
• Authentic
• Dependable

Antonyms

• Untrustworthy
• Unreliable
• Unbelievable
• Doubtful
• Incredible
• Unconvincing

Translations

Regional Pronunciation Variations

• In American English, the pronunciation tends to emphasize the first syllable: /ˈkrɛdɪbəl/.
• In British English, the pronunciation is often clearer and may soften the vowel in the second syllable: /ˈkrɛdɪbəl/.

Historical Usage

The term "credible" has been used since the 16th century, evolving from the Latin "credibilis," referring to something that could be believed. Historically, it has been used in literature, journalism, and law to designate sources or testimonies that are trusted to be truthful and reliable. The concept of credibility became especially important in the modern era with the rise of media, where the ability of a source to be trusted influences public opinion and decision-making.

Cultural Nuances

The concept of credibility can vary across cultures. In some cultures, personal reputation and social status play a significant role in determining what is considered credible. In others, institutional credibility may be more important, such as in scientific research or news outlets. Moreover, in the digital age, credibility has taken on new dimensions with the rise of online platforms, where the rapid spread of misinformation challenges traditional ideas of what is credible.

More Information

The importance of credibility extends beyond individual interactions; it influences organizations, governments, and even entire societies. When a source or individual is deemed credible, their messages are more likely to be accepted by the public, leading to greater influence and trust. Conversely, a lack of credibility can lead to skepticism, disillusionment, or even rejection. As such, maintaining credibility is crucial in various domains, from personal relationships to business and politics. With the increasing prevalence of digital media and fake news, ensuring the credibility of information has become a pressing challenge.