believe

believeverb

1. think trueaccept that something is true, especially without being completely certain

   transitive [T] verb + object [V + obj] verb + that-clause [V + that] not used in continuous tenses [no continuous]

   • I believe you; that must have been frightening. V + obj
   • Scientists believe that the disease can be prevented. V + that
   • She doesn't believe a word he says. V + obj
   • It is widely believed that the plan will fail. (passive)

   Collocations

   phrase believe someone, believe a story, hard to believe, believe it or not

   Synonyms think (a weaker, more everyday word for having an opinion); buy; feel

   Antonyms doubt

   Compare know (know normally implies proof or certainty; believe does not require it)

   1. athink that something exists

      intransitive [I] verb + preposition + object [V + prep + obj]

      • Do you believe in life after death? V + prep + obj
      • Many children believe in magic. V + prep + obj

      Collocations

      verb + preposition believe in god, believe in ghosts, believe in magic

2. trust inhave confidence in the ability or the value of someone or something

   intransitive [I] verb + preposition + object [V + prep + obj] not used in continuous tenses [no continuous]

   • Her parents always believed in her. V + prep + obj
   • You have to believe in yourself if you want to succeed. V + prep + obj
   • The whole team believes in this project. V + prep + obj

   Collocations

   verb + preposition believe in yourself, believe in someone, believe in a plan

   Synonyms trust