betray
word
Definition
To hurt someone by being disloyal or breaking their trust. It can also mean to unintentionally reveal something, such as a feeling, secret, or weakness.
Usage & Nuances
Often used for serious personal or moral situations: 'betray a friend', 'betray your country', 'betray someone's trust'. In formal/literary use, it can mean 'show unintentionally': 'His voice betrayed his fear'. Learners sometimes confuse it with 'cheat'; 'betray' is broader and focuses on broken loyalty or trust.
Example Sentences
He betrayed his best friend for money.
basic
She felt that I had betrayed her trust.
basic
His face betrayed his fear.
basic
I told you that in private, so please don't betray my trust.
natural
His smile said he was fine, but his eyes betrayed him.
natural
She would never betray a friend just to get ahead at work.
natural