“Trusting” is an adjective that describes a person who is inclined to believe in the honesty, reliability, or goodness of others. Here are some synonyms and an analysis of each:
1. Faithful
- Analysis: “Faithful” can refer to a person who is loyal and steadfast in their trust or belief. For example, “She was a faithful friend, always believing in his good intentions.” It emphasizes a sense of loyalty and constancy in trust. In contrast to “trusting,” “faithful” often implies a deeper and more committed form of trust that endures over time. While “trusting” can describe a more general inclination to trust, “faithful” is associated with a stronger bond and a more unwavering belief.
2. Confiding
- Analysis: “Confiding” means showing trust by sharing secrets or personal thoughts. For example, “The confiding child told the teacher his fears.” It emphasizes the act of placing trust through disclosure. In comparison to “trusting,” “confiding” is more about the action of entrusting someone with private information as a sign of trust. A trusting person may not necessarily always be confiding, but a confiding person clearly demonstrates a high level of trust in the recipient of their confidences.
3. Gullible
- Analysis: “Gullible” means easily persuaded to believe something; too trusting. For example, “He was so gullible that he believed every word of the con artist.” It has a negative connotation, suggesting a naivete or a lack of critical thinking in trusting others. In contrast to a more positive - sense “trusting,” “gullible” implies that the person trusts too easily and may be taken advantage of. A trusting person may exercise some judgment, while a gullible person often does not.
4. Credulous
- Analysis: “Credulous” is similar to “gullible” and means having a tendency to believe things too readily. For example, “The credulous audience was quick to accept the magician's false claims.” It emphasizes a willingness to believe without sufficient evidence. In comparison to “trusting,” “credulous” highlights the aspect of believing easily, which might lead to being misled. A trusting person may have a more reasonable basis for their trust, whereas a credulous person may not be as discerning.
5. Reliant
- Analysis: “Reliant” means depending on or having trust in someone or something. For example, “The elderly woman was reliant on her neighbors for help.” It emphasizes the aspect of dependence that comes with trust. In contrast to “trusting,” “reliant” focuses more on the practical need for trust because of a dependence on others. A trusting person may have a more general belief in people, while a reliant person specifically depends on others for support or resources.
6. Trustful
- Analysis: “Trustful” is very similar to “trusting” and means full of trust or having a trusting nature. For example, “The trustful puppy wagged its tail at every stranger.” It is a more archaic - sounding synonym, but it has the same positive connotation of a person or animal being inclined to trust. The difference between “trusting” and “trustful” is minimal, and they can often be used interchangeably to describe someone who has a natural inclination to believe in others.