on faith
Definition
Adverb * With trust and confidence, without proof or verification: To accept or believe something based on trust in the source or authority, rather than on concrete evidence or personal verification.
Usage
The phrase "on faith" is used to describe an act of belief or acceptance that is not based on empirical evidence, logical proof, or firsthand knowledge. It implies a reliance on trust, often in a person, an institution, or a set of teachings. * It is commonly used in religious contexts but applies to any situation requiring trust without proof. * It often follows verbs like accept, take, believe, or act.
Examples
- The story was so extraordinary that we had to take it on faith.
- I can't prove my theory yet, so I'm asking you to accept it on faith for now.
- Many scientific principles are initially learned on faith from teachers before students can verify them through experiment.
- She followed his instructions on faith, trusting his expertise completely.
Advanced Usage
- To take something on faith: This is the most common collocation, meaning to believe or accept something without requiring proof.
- The public had to take the official's statement on faith during the crisis.
- To act on faith: To proceed with an action based on trust or belief, despite uncertainty.
- Investing in the startup was an act of faith, as they had no track record.
Variants and Related Words
- Faith (n): Complete trust or confidence in someone or something.
- Faith-based (adj): Relating to or based on religious faith.
- Good faith (n): Honest or sincere intention, even if the outcome is not as expected.
- They entered the negotiations in good faith.
Synonyms
- Trustingly
- Unquestioningly
- Credulously
- On trust
Related Idioms
- A leap of faith: An act of believing in something that is not certain or cannot be proven.
- Moving to a new country for a job was a real leap of faith.
Adverb
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with trust and confidence
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we accepted him on faith
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