overcredulity
Học thuậtThân thiện
Definition
Noun: - An excessive or unreasonable willingness to believe that something is real or true: The state of being too ready to accept statements or beliefs without sufficient evidence or proof.
Usage
The word "overcredulity" is a formal noun used to describe a character trait or a specific instance of being excessively gullible or trusting. It often carries a critical tone, suggesting a lack of proper skepticism or judgment.
Examples
- The scam artist exploited the overcredulity of the elderly investors.
- Her overcredulity made her an easy target for online conspiracy theories.
- The historian warned against overcredulity when examining unverified ancient accounts.
Advanced Usage
- "A tendency toward overcredulity": This phrase is used to describe a habitual inclination to believe things too easily.
- His tendency toward overcredulity meant he often fell for get-rich-quick schemes.
Variants and Related Words
- Credulity (noun): A willingness to believe something on little evidence; gullibility. (This is the base word without the excessive quality denoted by "over-").
- Credulous (adjective): Having or showing too great a readiness to believe things.
- Overcredulous (adjective): Excessively credulous.
Synonyms
- Gullibility: Readiness to believe something uncritically.
- Naivety: Lack of experience, wisdom, or judgment, often leading to being easily deceived.
- Trustfulness: Inclination to trust people readily (can be neutral or positive, unlike the negative "overcredulity").
Antonyms
- Skepticism: A doubting or questioning attitude.
- Cynicism: An inclination to believe that people are motivated purely by self-interest; distrustfulness.
- Wariness: Caution about possible dangers or problems.