Words / C1

kred-uh-BIL-uh-tee/ˌkredəˈbɪləti/

Credibility is the extent to which people are willing to believe you or your account. Native writers say undermine / damage / restore credibility. Reputation is broader (what people think of you over time); reliability is about consistent performance. Credible is the adjective: a credible witness. Credulous means too ready to believe — a trap word.

Meaning

The quality of being trusted and believed.

Examples

• “The mistake damaged his credibility.”
• “Without sources, the blog has little credibility.”
• “One exaggeration can cost a journalist her credibility.”

Good to know

credibility of a person/claim. adjective: credible. Not credulous (gullible).

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