believe

[bɪˈliːv]

believe Definition

• 1. accept that (something) is true, especially without proof
• 2. hold (something) as an opinion; think or suppose

Using believe: Examples

Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "believe" can be used in various situations through the following examples!

• Example

  I believe that he is telling the truth.

• Example

  Do you believe in ghosts?

• Example

  I find it hard to believe that she would do such a thing.

• Example

  Many people believe that the Earth is flat.

believe Synonyms and Antonyms

Synonyms for believe

• think
• consider
• trust
• accept
• have faith in

Antonyms for believe

• doubt
• disbelieve
• reject

Idioms Using believe

• believe in someone/something

  have confidence in the truth, existence, reliability, or effectiveness of someone/something

  Example

  I believe in you and your ability to succeed.

• believe one's own eyes

  accept what one is seeing as true

  Example

  I had to rub my eyes to make sure I was believing my own eyes when I saw the incredible view from the mountaintop.

• believe someone/something when one sees it

  be skeptical about the existence or truth of someone/something until one has seen evidence of it

  Example

  I'll believe it when I see it - I won't get my hopes up until I know for sure.

Phrases with believe

• believe it or not

  used to introduce a surprising or unlikely statement

  Example

  Believe it or not, I once saw a man walking his pet snake down the street.

• make-believe

  the action of pretending or imagining oneself to be something one is not

  Example

  The children were playing make-believe, pretending to be pirates on a ship.

• can't believe one's ears/eyes

  be unable to accept what one is hearing/seeing

  Example

  I couldn't believe my ears when she told me the news.

Origins of believe

from Old English 'belēfan', meaning 'to have faith in'

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Summary: believe in Brief

The verb 'believe' [bɪˈliːv] means to accept something as true, often without proof, or to hold something as an opinion. It can be used in phrases like 'believe it or not,' 'make-believe,' and 'can't believe one's ears/eyes.' Idioms include 'believe in someone/something,' 'believe one's own eyes,' and 'believe someone/something when one sees it.'