English UsageComparison guide
Credible vs. Credulous
“Credible” describes something or someone that is believable or convincing. “Credulous” describes a person who is too ready to believe things.
A credible claim is believable; a credulous person believes too easily.
Key details
Credible Corebelievable or convincing
Credulous Coretoo ready to believe
Termscredible, credulous
Further guidance
Core difference
Credible evaluates believability; credulous describes a person or attitude that accepts claims too readily.
Fast Test
Can you replace it with “believable”? Use credible. Can you replace it with “gullible” or “too trusting”? Use credulous.
Usage Boundary
Credulous normally has a critical implication; credible generally does not.
Sources and evidence
Sources are shown with the role they play in this guide. Historical or style-sensitive claims are kept within the evidence boundary described above.
- Credible — Cambridge Dictionary (opens in a new tab)Cambridge University Press · Meaning of credible as believable or convincing
- Credulous — Cambridge Dictionary (opens in a new tab)Cambridge University Press · Meaning of credulous as too ready to believe