What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
suspect
Example
The police suspect that the thief entered through the window. [suspect: verb]
Example
I have a suspicion that he is lying. [suspicion: noun]
believe
Example
I believe that honesty is the best policy. [believe: verb]
Example
I believe him when he says he didn't do it. [believe: verb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Believe is more commonly used than suspect in everyday language. Believe is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while suspect is less common and mainly used in criminal or legal contexts.
Whatโs the difference in the tone of formality between suspect and believe?
Believe is more formal than suspect. Believe can be used in both formal and informal contexts, while suspect is typically associated with a formal and legal tone.
