credence
What does "credence" mean?
Credence refers to the mental acceptance of something as true or real. The mental image is that of a weight or support being placed behind a statement or belief, essentially "giving" it the validity it needs to be taken seriously. It is primarily used in formal or academic contexts and almost exclusively appears in the set phrase "give credence to." You would use it when discussing evidence, rumors, or theories that are gaining traction or becoming more believable.
"credence" in conversation
Discussing a rumor at work
Did you hear the gossip about the new merger?
Did you hear the gossip about the new merger?
I wouldn't give that any credence until we hear it from HR.
I wouldn't give that any credence until we hear it from HR.
Fair point, it sounds pretty far-fetched.
Fair point, it sounds pretty far-fetched.
Used here to express skepticism about the validity of a rumor.
A detective reviewing evidence
The new forensic report lends credence to the suspect's alibi.
The new forensic report lends credence to the suspect's alibi.
So we might have to let him go?
So we might have to let him go?
It certainly complicates our theory.
It certainly complicates our theory.
The phrase 'lends credence' is a classic collocation in formal or investigative settings.
"credence" in a sentence
The scientist found no evidence to give credence to the theory.
The scientist found no evidence to give credence to the theory.
Recent market data lends credence to the idea that the economy is cooling down.
Recent market data lends credence to the idea that the economy is cooling down.
His long history of success gives considerable credence to his bold claims about future growth.
His long history of success gives considerable credence to his bold claims about future growth.
