Note: The translation for this entry is currently under quality review. Some content is temporarily displayed in English only.
confidence
/ˈkɒnfɪdəns/
Confidence is primarily used as an uncountable noun, meaning it usually doesn't take a plural form (e.g., 'much confidence,' not 'many confidences'). However, 'confidences' can be used in the plural to mean 'private matters' or 'secrets shared between people,' as in 'They exchanged confidences.' Be mindful of the context to understand which meaning is intended. In everyday speech, confidence refers to self-assurance. In more specific contexts, like sharing secrets, the plural 'confidences' is used.
💬Casual Conversation
The client is spiraling. Do we actually have any confidence in this timeline?
Totally. Just lean into the synergy and they'll buy it.
Meanings
A feeling of self-assurance arising from one's appreciation of one's abilities or qualities.
"Her confidence grew with practice."
A particularidade de se sentir seguro e preparado para enfrentar uma situação.
"He spoke with great confidence."
Trust in somebody that somebody will do something correctly or will be successful.
"I have complete confidence in your judgment."
Collocations & Compounds
gain confidence
To develop more self-assurance.
She started taking classes to gain confidence.
lose confidence
To become less self-assured.
He lost confidence after the failure.
full confidence
Complete trust or self-assurance.
I have full confidence in your abilities.
self-confidence
Belief in one's own abilities or judgment.
Her self-confidence was inspiring.
confidence level
The degree of certainty or assurance.
The team's confidence level was high.
Idioms & Sayings
in confidence
In secret; shared as a private matter.
He told me the secret in confidence.
full of confidence
Having a great deal of self-assurance.
She entered the competition full of confidence.
Etymology
The word 'confidence' entered English in the early 15th century, derived from the Latin word 'fidere', meaning 'to trust'. This root also gave rise to words like 'fidelity' and 'fideism'. Initially, 'confidence' in English meant 'a firm trust' or 'reliance' on someone or something, often with a religious connotation, as in 'trust in God'. The sense of 'boldness' or 'self-assurance' developed later, around the 16th century, perhaps influenced by the French word 'confiance', which carried a similar dual meaning of trust and boldness. Over time, the sense of 'self-assurance' became more prominent in everyday usage, while the older meaning of 'trust in others' remained, particularly in formal contexts like legal or financial agreements.