trustful
B1Pronunciation
UK
- /trˈʌstfəl/
US
- /trˈʌstfəl/
Description
- trusting
- full of faith
- ready to believe others
- open-hearted
To be trustful is to place your faith in others easily and to believe they are honest, kind, and likely to mean well. A trustful person is not always naive; they simply meet the world expecting the best from people until they have a reason not to. Think of a child following a parent's guidance, or a loyal dog feeling safe with its owner. The idea carries openness and vulnerability, since it means giving others a chance. Sometimes, being trustful can lead to disappointment, but it can also open the way to deep connections and meaningful relationships.
The word "trustful" describes someone who is inclined to believe in the honesty, reliability, and good intentions of others. It is more than just being trusted; it is about giving trust freely. Imagine a seasoned traveler cautiously eyeing a local guide—they might be wary. Now picture a young child eagerly accepting a friendly wave from a stranger—that child is trustful.
Being trustful isn't the same as being gullible. A trustful person can still be careful and use good judgment, but their natural starting point is faith rather than suspicion. They believe people are generally good until evidence suggests otherwise. This quality is vital for building strong relationships. Friendships, romantic partnerships, and even professional collaborations often grow through mutual trust.
However, it is important to note that excessive trustfulness without any boundaries can lead to exploitation or disappointment. A healthy balance involves being open and believing in others while also maintaining a degree of self-protection. A character in literature might be described as "inherently trustful," meaning it is deeply ingrained in their personality, often leading them into both wonderful adventures and difficult situations.
Ultimately, "trustful" isn't just about the act of believing; it is a fundamental aspect of how someone interacts with the world—a hopeful outlook built on faith and openness, tempered by wisdom and self-awareness.
Examples
- 1
Children
Mia was a trustful child and rarely questioned what adults told her.
- 2
Animal expression
The dog looked up at me with big, trustful eyes.
- 3
Workplace trust
After months of honest conversations, he became more trustful of his new manager.
Pattern
trustful of + person
ready to believe or rely on them
- 4
Personal manner
There was something open and trustful in the way she spoke.
Forms and spellings
1 form open this card.
Main spelling
- trustfuladjective