faith
/feɪθ/
Faith is characterized by a leap beyond evidence. Unlike 'trust', which is often built on a track record of reliability, faith implies a conviction that persists even in the absence of proof or during times of doubt. In a secular context, it describes an unwavering psychological reliance on someone's character or skill. It carries a positive, supportive connotation, suggesting a deep emotional investment in a positive outcome. In a religious context, it shifts from personal trust to a spiritual alignment with a higher power or a structured system of belief. Here, it represents both the internal state of believing and the external identity of belonging to a specific religion.
Uncountable when describing the general feeling of trust ('I have faith in you') or spiritual devotion. Countable when referring to specific organized religions ('The city is home to many different faiths').
💬Casual Conversation
Hard to keep the faith sometimes, you know? This place just grinds you down.
My faith is in the hull integrity, Commander. And duct tape.
Meanings
Complete trust or confidence in someone or something.
"She has total faith in her doctor's ability to cure her."
Strong belief in God or in the doctrines of a religion, based on spiritual apprehension rather than proof.
"Their shared faith provided them with strength during the crisis."
A particular system of religious belief.
"People of all faiths were welcome to attend the community center."
Collocations & Compounds
blind faith
belief that is not based on proof or reason
He has blind faith in his doctor's ability to cure him.
lose faith
to stop believing in someone or something
She began to lose faith in the government's promises.
place faith in
to trust in someone or something
We must place faith in the ability of our team to succeed.
keep faith
to continue to believe in someone or something, especially during difficult times
Despite the setbacks, she managed to keep faith with her goals.
articles of faith
basic principles or beliefs that someone strongly believes in
Protecting the environment is one of the articles of faith for this organization.
Idioms & Sayings
by faith
by believing in something that cannot be seen or proven
He lived his life by faith, trusting in a higher power.
in good faith
with sincere and honest intentions
They negotiated the contract in good faith, hoping for a fair outcome.
in bad faith
with the intention to deceive or mislead
The company was accused of acting in bad faith by hiding crucial information.
faith healer
a person who claims to cure illnesses through religious belief and prayer
Many people seek out a faith healer when conventional medicine fails.
faith movement
a religious movement based on faith healing and spiritual deliverance
The faith movement gained popularity in the mid-20th century.
Etymology
The word 'faith' comes from the Old French 'feid', which itself derives from the Latin 'fides', meaning 'trust' or 'belief'. It entered Middle English around the 12th century. The concept of faith has ancient roots, appearing in various religious and philosophical traditions, emphasizing belief in something unseen or unproven.