belief
noun (countable)
UK/bɪˈliːf/US/bɪˈliːf/
Something accepted as true or held as an opinion; a principle or conviction that guides thought or behavior.
Example Sentences
She holds a strong belief that the best ideas come from open collaboration.
Their family's belief in cultural traditions remains unwavering, passing from generation to generation.
People often express their belief in spiritual forces by practicing various rituals and prayers.
This new study challenges the widespread belief that humans cannot adapt to extremely cold climates.
Encouraging open dialogue can help clarify misconceptions and break down rigid belief systems.
The politician's speech reflected his deep belief in public service, reminding voters that genuine leadership requires empathy and integrity.
Despite differing opinions, they found common ground in the belief that respect and mutual understanding are crucial for a healthy relationship.
Teachers play a pivotal role in shaping students' belief in their own abilities.
Thesaurus
Synonyms
Antonyms
How to Use
A conviction or trust in the reality or validity of an idea, principle, or statement.“Belief” is most commonly used as a noun referring to the attitude or state of mind in which a person holds a proposition, theory, or value to be true. Beliefs can range from religious convictions to moral values, political stances, or everyday assumptions. The strength of a belief often hinges on cultural background, personal experiences, logical reasoning, or emotional resonance. For instance, one might talk about their belief in a higher power, their belief that kindness matters, or their belief that a particular method is best. When using “belief,” clarify the basis or evidence (or lack thereof) supporting it. For example, “Her belief in the healing power of herbal remedies comes from family tradition.” Or, “I have a strong belief that people can change, given the right support and environment.” The word can also be contrasted with “knowledge,” which implies more direct evidence or proof, or “opinion,” which can be a milder, more subjective viewpoint. In conversation or writing, “belief” underscores a person’s stance or worldview, shaping their actions and responses to situations. Understanding the roots and intensity of one’s belief can help explain why they act as they do, especially in contexts like spirituality, politics, lifestyle choices, or personal values.
Alternatives
If you need to avoid repeating “belief,” consider synonyms such as “conviction,” which implies a firm or strongly held position. “Faith” can capture trust in concepts that aren’t empirically proven, often relating to religious or spiritual contexts. “Confidence” may highlight trust or assurance in a person, system, or outcome. “Opinion” works if the stance is less firm or more open to debate, whereas “assumption” suggests a baseline acceptance without full proof. Each choice shifts nuance—“conviction” sounds resolute, “faith” leans spiritual or deep trust, and “opinion” might be more tentative or open-ended. Selecting a synonym depends on how strongly held or how evidence-based the stance is. For example, “conviction” often implies strong, unwavering adherence, while “assumption” indicates a provisional standpoint. Meanwhile, “confidence” applies when the stance directly involves trusting someone or something to deliver or behave a certain way. Tailoring your word choice to these nuances conveys the degree of certainty or emotional investment in the viewpoint.
Writing
When writing about beliefs, context is vital to clarify how they emerge, how strongly they’re held, and what implications they have. If you’re discussing religious beliefs in an essay, you might explain their historical roots, scriptural references, or cultural significance. In a sociological study of politics, describing voter beliefs demands an exploration of personal background, ideology, and information sources. Fiction writers might show a character’s beliefs influencing their decisions, portraying internal conflicts if evidence contradicts their beliefs. For example, “Despite mounting evidence to the contrary, his belief in the legend remained unshaken.” In more formal or academic writing, you might analyze “belief systems” to underscore interconnected views on morality, reality, or identity—like discussing how a community’s core beliefs shape social structures. Using tangible examples or real-life anecdotes helps readers grasp how beliefs drive behavior. Also, balancing explanation of why people believe something with possible counterarguments or alternative beliefs reveals complexity, fostering deeper understanding. Ultimately, pairing “belief” with descriptive or comparative language (like “deep-seated beliefs,” “newfound beliefs,” “shaken beliefs”) can highlight the emotional or cognitive intensity behind someone’s stance. This approach allows readers to see beliefs as dynamic, sometimes evolving, and central to individuals’ sense of self and purpose.
Casual Conversation
In everyday conversation, “belief” comes up when people talk about their values, opinions, or trust in an idea. You might say, “It’s my belief that exercise helps manage stress,” or “My family’s belief in education led me to pursue college.” Friends may share beliefs about healthy eating, astrology, politics, or a host of other topics, often starting with phrases like, “I believe that…” or “It’s my belief…” If you’re discussing personal stances, it can clarify how you see the world—“I hold the belief that kindness counts more than wealth.” Sometimes people contrast beliefs—“I respect her beliefs, but I don’t share them.” In more relaxed chats, beliefs may pop up around sports (like believing a team will win), rumors, or social norms. Because “belief” can be sensitive or tied to identity, polite discourse often involves acknowledging someone else’s right to hold a belief, even if you disagree. You might say, “We have different beliefs, but we can still get along,” signaling open-mindedness while maintaining your own position. Talking about beliefs can reveal deeper layers of personal background and worldview, so clarity and respect help keep the exchange productive and friendly.
Etymology
“Belief” descends from the Middle English “beleave,” influenced by Old English “geleafa,” reflecting a sense of trust or faith. The Proto-Germanic root suggests meanings tied to dear or precious approval—fitting the notion of valuing something as true or important. Over time, “belief” in English solidified into meaning a mental or emotional acceptance of a statement, idea, or principle without indisputable proof. The term’s usage broadened through religious discourse, philosophical texts, and everyday language, shaping how speakers articulate convictions about the world. Today, “belief” stands at a crossroads of reason, culture, and personal experience—encompassing anything from unwavering doctrines to flexible viewpoints. Whether in spiritual, moral, or intellectual domains, the word retains its ancient connotation of holding something dear and true, underpinning much of human thought and motivation.