credulity

[kri-doo-luh-tee, -dyoo-]

credulity Definition

a tendency to believe too readily and therefore be easily deceived.

Using credulity: Examples

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

  • Example

    The con artist took advantage of the old man's credulity.

  • Example

    Her credulity made her an easy target for scams.

  • Example

    The politician relied on the credulity of his supporters to spread false information.

credulity Synonyms and Antonyms

Synonyms for credulity

Antonyms for credulity

Phrases with credulity

  • to be too much to believe or accept

    Example

    The plot of the movie was so ridiculous that it stretched credulity.

  • to test the limits of what people are willing to believe or accept

    Example

    The company's advertising campaign was designed to tax credulity, making exaggerated claims about their product.

  • a difference between what people are told and what they are willing to believe

    Example

    The government's explanation for the war created a credulity gap among the public, who were skeptical of the official story.

Origins of credulity

from Latin 'credulus', meaning 'believing'

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Summary: credulity in Brief

Credulity [kri-doo-luh-tee, -dyoo-] is the tendency to believe too readily and therefore be easily deceived. It is often exploited by con artists and scammers, as well as politicians spreading false information. Phrases like 'stretch credulity' and 'tax credulity' describe situations where something is hard to believe or accept. The term is formal and can be used interchangeably with 'gullibility' and 'naivety.'