Definition

Noun: A firmly held conviction or acceptance that something is true or real, maintained with certainty and confidence, even in the absence of objective proof or evidence. It implies a deep, often personal, commitment to an idea or principle.

Usage

This term is used to describe a conviction that is deeply rooted and not easily changed by argument or contradictory information. It often relates to personal, spiritual, or ideological tenets. - It functions as a countable noun (e.g., a strong belief, strong beliefs). - It is typically followed by a prepositional phrase beginning with "in" (e.g., a strong belief in justice) or a "that" clause (e.g., a strong belief that hard work pays off).

Examples

• Her strong belief in equality guided all her political actions.
• He held the strong belief that his team could win against all odds.
• Their strong belief in the project's mission kept them motivated during difficult times.

Advanced Usage

• "To hold a strong belief": To possess and maintain a firm conviction.
  • He holds a strong belief in the importance of community.
• "A strong belief system": A comprehensive set of interconnected beliefs that form a worldview.
  • The culture is built upon a strong belief system that values honor.

Variants and Related Words

• Conviction (n): A firmly held belief or opinion. Often used interchangeably, though "conviction" can sometimes imply a belief reached after consideration.
• Faith (n): Complete trust or confidence, often in a religious context. "Strong belief" can be synonymous with secular faith.
• Certainty (n): The state of being absolutely convinced. A "strong belief" leads to a feeling of certainty.
• Belief (n): The more general term for an acceptance that something exists or is true.

Synonyms

• Firm belief
• Deep conviction
• Unshakable faith
• Steadfast opinion

Antonyms

• Doubt (n): A feeling of uncertainty or lack of conviction.
• Skepticism (n): A doubting or questioning attitude.
• Disbelief (n): Inability or refusal to accept that something is true.

Related Phrases

• Blind faith: Unquestioning belief without regard to evidence or reason. This is a more extreme, and sometimes negative, form of a strong belief.
  • Following the leader with blind faith can be dangerous.
• Article of faith: A core belief that is not to be disputed, especially in a religious or ideological context.
  • For him, freedom of speech is an article of faith.

Noun

1. an unshakable belief in something without need for proof or evidence