Credulous

Adjective

Definition: Willing to believe or trust too readily, especially without proper or adequate evidence; gullible.

Synonyms: Trusting, Naive, Unsuspecting

Antonyms: Skeptical, Cautious, Suspicious

Examples:
  • The credulous child believed everything his older brother told him.
  • Sarah's credulous nature made her an easy target for scams and hoaxes.
Mnemonics:
  • "Credulous" sounds like "credible," but it actually means the opposite. Think of it as someone who is too quick to believe.
  • Imagine a person with wide open eyes, eagerly accepting anything they are told.

Etymology:

Origin:

The word "credulous" comes from the Latin word "credulus," which means "believing." It can be traced back to the late 16th century.

Historical Usage:

The term "credulous" has been used consistently throughout history to describe individuals who are inclined to believe things without sufficient evidence or critical thinking.

Related Idioms:

Idiom:

"Credulous as a child"

Explanation:

This phrase is used to describe someone who is extremely trusting and easily persuaded, similar to how young children often believe everything they are told.

Misconceptions:

Misconception:

Confusing "credulous" with "credible."

Explanation:

While "credible" means believable or reliable, "credulous" refers to a person who is too willing to believe things without much evidence. These two words have different meanings, even though they sound similar.

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