Synonym Chooser

How is the word credence different from other nouns like it?

Some common synonyms of credence are belief, credit, and faith. While all these words mean "assent to the truth of something offered for acceptance," credence suggests intellectual assent without implying anything about grounds for assent.

a theory now given credence by scientists

When is it sensible to use belief instead of credence?

In some situations, the words belief and credence are roughly equivalent. However, belief may or may not imply certitude in the believer.

my belief that I had caught all the errors

When is credit a more appropriate choice than credence?

The words credit and credence are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, credit may imply assent on grounds other than direct proof.

gave full credit to the statement of a reputable witness

Where would faith be a reasonable alternative to credence?

The meanings of faith and credence largely overlap; however, faith almost always implies certitude even where there is no evidence or proof.

an unshakable faith in God

Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of credence Though bringing the swing-off into the regular season might be a bridge too far for some fans, the success that the format enjoyed in the All-Star Game could lend credence to the idea. Peter Chawaga, MSNBC Newsweek, 16 July 2025 That Gallaudet is a retired rear admiral of the Navy and former acting and deputy administrator of the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, or NOAA, arguably adds credence to a belief that, while not uncommon, tends to draw eye-rolls. Jean Marbella, Baltimore Sun, 25 June 2025 Hart didn’t seem to give much credence to the criticisms. Joseph States, Chicago Tribune, 12 June 2025 The prospect that some of my new role models might be the beguines, an order of medieval religious laywomen, was hilarious as well as surprising, though its very unexpectedness gave the idea credence. Hazlitt, 11 June 2025 See All Example Sentences for credence
Recent Examples of Synonyms for credence
Noun
  • Tracey Harvey, inspired by Kelly’s confidence, climbed a wall in Hyde Park to get a better view of the stage.
    Charlotte Harpur, New York Times, 30 July 2025
  • The University Academic Senate narrowly voted no confidence in Marquette leaders, including Ah Yun, a few days after he was named president.
    Kelly Meyerhofer, jsonline.com, 30 July 2025
Noun
  • At Obermeyer, that belief is reflected in everything from internal development to community co-creation.
    Simon Mainwaring, Forbes.com, 28 July 2025
  • Ukraine has its own problems with morale and desertion but one sentiment is likely far less prevalent among its ranks: lack of belief in the cause.
    Andrew Carey, CNN Money, 28 July 2025
Noun
  • Operational excellence matters, but what sets leaders apart is recovery: fast, proactive and rooted in consumer trust.
    Footwear News, Footwear News, 10 July 2025
  • Slim majorities of California voters had little or no trust that Gov. Gavin Newsom and the state Legislature act in the best interest of the public.
    Los Angeles Times, Los Angeles Times, 10 July 2025
Noun
  • The tax break, which provides a $7,500 for new EVs and a $4,000 credit for used EVs, is credited with helping make electric vehicles more affordable for many buyers.
    Alain Sherter, CBS News, 14 July 2025
  • The credits — worth up to $7,500 and $4,000 for purchases of new and used EVs, respectively — will disappear after Sept. 30.
    Jamie L. LaReau, Freep.com, 14 July 2025
Noun
  • Critics say displaying those details may encourage some observing the festival to boycott shops owned by those of another faith – an attack on the secularism enshrined in the constitution.
    Aishwarya S. Iyer, CNN Money, 25 July 2025
  • Even in the aftermath of a loss where everything that could go wrong did, several prominent Twins said the series demonstrated their best days are still ahead, with Lewis re-emerging as a threat being central to their faith.
    Dan Hayes, New York Times, 24 July 2025

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Cite this Entry

“Credence.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/credence. Accessed 5 Aug. 2025.

More from Merriam-Webster on credence

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