credible

/ˈkrɛdəbəl/
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Worthy of belief or trust, or sufficiently capable and effective to be taken seriously.

Examples

  • Without independent records, the accusation is not credible.
  • Her explanation sounded credible at first.
  • Is there any credible evidence for that claim?
  • The reporter relied on two credible sources.
  • They need a credible plan, not another vague promise.

Similar words

respectable
competent
dependable
reliable
believable
convincing
viable
trustworthy
effective
convincing

Meanings

Worthy of belief or trust

adjective
communication
neutral
Providing reasonable grounds for belief or trust because the person, claim, or source appears reliable and convincing.

Examples

  • The reporter relied on two credible sources.
  • Is there any credible evidence for that claim?
  • Her explanation sounded credible at first.
  • The witness remained credible under questioning.
  • Without independent records, the accusation is not credible.

Similar words

Good enough to be effective

adjective
general
neutral
Sufficiently capable, effective, or well made to be taken seriously as a performance, plan, alternative, challenge, or force.

Examples

  • The small party became a credible electoral force.
  • She gave a credible performance in her first leading role.
  • Could this prototype become a credible alternative to plastic?
  • The team failed to mount a credible challenge in the final.
  • They need a credible plan, not another vague promise.

Similar words

Etymology

From Middle English credible, from Latin credibilis, meaning worthy of belief, based on credere, to believe or trust. The word has been used in English since the fourteenth century.

FAQ

What does credible mean?

Credible means worthy of belief or trust, or capable enough to be taken seriously.

Can credible describe a person?

Yes. A credible person appears knowledgeable, honest, and reliable enough to be believed.

What is credible evidence?

Credible evidence gives reasonable grounds for belief because its source and content appear reliable.

What is the difference between credible and plausible?

Credible often emphasizes trustworthiness, while plausible emphasizes seeming reasonable or possible.

Can credible mean effective?

Yes. A credible performance, plan, or challenge is good or capable enough to be taken seriously.

Where does credible come from?

Credible comes through Middle English from Latin credibilis, based on credere, meaning to believe or trust.

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