“Credulous” is an adjective that describes a person who is too ready to believe things without proper evidence or verification. Here are some synonyms and their characteristics:
1. Gullible
- Meaning: Easily persuaded to believe something; naïve. For example, “The gullible tourists believed every word the con - artist said.” The main difference between “credulous” and “gullible” is that “gullible” has a stronger connotation of being easily tricked or deceived. A gullible person is often seen as lacking in the ability to be skeptical.
2. Naive
- Meaning: Lacking experience, wisdom, or judgment and therefore being overly trusting. For example, “The naive young girl thought everyone was as honest as she was.” “Naive” emphasizes a lack of worldly knowledge or awareness. While “credulous” focuses on a tendency to believe easily, “naive” implies a more general innocence and lack of understanding of how the world works.
3. Trusting
- Meaning: Having a natural inclination to trust others. For example, “His trusting nature made him vulnerable to false promises.” “Trusting” is a milder form of “credulous.” It simply implies a propensity to trust, but it doesn't necessarily mean that the person is always ready to believe anything without question. A trusting person may have a more positive view of others and may not have as much suspicion as a less - trusting individual.
4. Unsuspecting
- Meaning: Not aware of possible danger or deception; without suspicion. For example, “The unsuspecting victims had no idea they were walking into a trap.” “Unsuspecting” is more about a lack of awareness of a potential negative situation. It's related to “credulous” in the sense that an unsuspecting person can be more likely to believe something false because they don't have their guard up.