credulity

What does “credulity” mean?

noun.a tendency to be too ready to believe that something is real or true.

SAT Usage

this term often appears in contexts related to belief, deception, or critical thinking, particularly in discussions about gullibility or the acceptance of misinformation. It emphasizes a lack of skepticism or discernment, distinguishing it from related terms like "naivety," which suggests innocence rather than a specific tendency to believe without question.

Common Confusions

Credulity implies a readiness to believe without sufficient evidence, while naivety usually suggests a lack of experience or sophistication in understanding the complexities of the world.

Example Sentences

• His credulity made him an easy target for scammers online.

• His credulity made him an easy target for scams.

Word Parts: How to Remember “credulity”

Break “credulity” into its parts: -cred- (believe, trust). Knowing roots like these helps you decode unfamiliar SAT vocabulary.

• Root: -cred- believe, trust (Latin)