Word

credible

adjective C1

/ˈkɹɛdəbl̩/

Meanings

adjective

Believable and likely to be true because it is supported by evidence or reliable details.

adjective

Trusted and respected, especially because of expertise, honesty, or a reliable record.

Definition

Credible means believable and trustworthy enough to be accepted as true.

If something is credible, it seems true because it is supported by clear evidence, reliable sources, or logical reasoning. People also describe a person or organization as credible when others trust their expertise and honesty. It often implies more than “possible”: it suggests solid grounds for belief.

Examples

I found her explanation credible because it matched the timeline and the emails.
You will sound more credible if you cite sources and acknowledge what you do not know.
He is a credible witness, since he described the scene consistently in every interview.
She offered a credible alternative plan that addressed both the budget limits and the deadline.
They need a credible strategy for reducing delays, not just optimistic promises.

Common mistake

Learners often confuse credible with credulous: credible means “believable,” while credulous means “too ready to believe.”