naive
word
Definition
If someone is naive, they trust people too easily or believe things without enough experience or judgment. It can also describe ideas or actions that are too simple because they do not consider how the real world works.
Usage & Nuances
Often slightly negative, especially for adults. 'Naive' is stronger than 'innocent': 'innocent' can be positive, but 'naive' often suggests poor judgment. Common patterns: 'naive about politics', 'it’s naive to think...', 'a naive assumption'. In tech or science, 'naive' can mean a basic model that ignores important factors.
Example Sentences
He was too naive to see that they were lying to him.
basic
The article takes a naive view of how politics really works.
natural
Her naive question made the class laugh.
basic
It is naive to think money solves every problem.
basic
I was pretty naive when I started my first job.
natural
That sounds nice, but it’s a bit naive to expect everyone to agree.
natural