credibility

word

/ˌkɹɛdəˈbɪɫɪti/
kre-duh-BI-luh-dee
/kɹˌɛdɪbˈɪlɪti/
kre-di-BI-li-tee

Definition

Credibility is the quality of being trusted or believed. If a person or information has credibility, people think it is honest and reliable.

Usage & Nuances

Used in formal and informal contexts, often about people, sources, news, or institutions. Common collocations: 'lose credibility', 'gain credibility', 'high credibility', 'question someone's credibility'. Not the same as 'reliability' (which is about being dependable).

Example Sentences

Lies can damage your credibility.

basic

The news report lacked credibility.

basic

His credibility took a hit after the scandal.

natural

It's hard to gain credibility once you've lost it.

natural

She has a lot of credibility at work.

basic

People question the company's credibility because of recent events.

natural