What is confidence? Pronunciation and usage in English

confidence means . Learn how to pronounce and use confidence through vivid examples and easy-to-understand exercises.

Definition & pronunciation of confidence

confidencenoun

/ˈkɒnfɪd(ə)ns/
Definition & pronunciation of confidence

Okay, let's break down how to pronounce "confidence" in English. It can be tricky for some learners! Here's a breakdown:

1. Syllables:

The word is divided into three syllables:

  • con – (like the beginning of "conquer")
  • fi – (like the beginning of "fish")
  • dence – (this is the tricky part!)

2. Detailed Pronunciation:

  • con: Pronounced like the word "con" - short 'o' sound.

  • fi: Pronounced like the word "fish" - a clear "f" sound followed by a short "i" (as in "it").

  • dence: This is where most people stumble. It’s pronounced like "dense" but with a slightly softer "d." Here's how to break it down further:

    • “den”: Say “den” as in the noun, like a small cave. It's a short, neutral "e" sound.
    • “-se”: Add a short "s" sound at the end, quickly and lightly. It's not a strong "s" like in "sun." Think of it as a very quick, almost silent "s" blending into the "e." It feels like a slight aspiration.

3. Putting it all together:

The whole word sounds approximately like: kon-fee-dence (with the "dense" part being relatively quick and soft).

4. Tips & Resources

  • Listen to Native Speakers: This is crucial. Here are some great resources to hear the correct pronunciation:

    • Google Translate: Type "confidence" into Google Translate and click the speaker icon.
    • Forvo: https://forvo.com/word/confidence/ - This website has pronunciations from native speakers.
    • YouTube: Search "how to pronounce confidence" on YouTube – you’ll find many videos.

  • Record Yourself: Record yourself saying the word and compare it to the pronunciation from a native speaker. This will help you identify areas where you need to improve.

To help me give you even more tailored advice, could you tell me:

  • What’s your native language? (This helps me anticipate potential pronunciation challenges you might have.)

Usage and examples with the word confidence in English

Let's break down how to use the word "confidence" in English. It's a versatile word with several different nuances. Here's a breakdown, categorized for clarity:

1. As a Noun (The core meaning - a feeling):

  • Definition: A feeling of self-assurance arising from one's belief in their abilities or qualities.
  • Examples:
    • "She has great confidence in her abilities as a painter." (She feels sure of herself as an artist.)
    • "He lacked confidence when speaking in public." (He didn't feel secure in his ability to speak.)
    • "Winning the competition gave her a boost of confidence." (It strengthened her belief in herself.)
    • "Building confidence takes time and practice." (It’s a gradual process.)

2. As a Verb (To feel or express certainty):

  • Definition: To be sure of oneself; to believe in one's abilities.
  • Examples:
    • "She confides in her best friend about her worries." (She reveals her feelings to her friend with trust.) – Note: 'Confides' is a related verb, but it specifically refers to revealing private information.
    • "He confided in me his plans for the future." (He shared his plans with you, trusting you.)
    • “I confidently presented my ideas to the team.” (I spoke with assurance and belief.)
    • “Don’t confide in just anyone; choose someone you trust.” (Choose a trustworthy person to share your secrets with.)

3. Different Types/Levels of Confidence:

  • Self-Confidence: Belief in your own abilities and worth. (e.g., "She has a lot of self-confidence.")
  • Social Confidence: Feeling comfortable and secure in social situations. (e.g., "He struggles with social confidence.")
  • Professional Confidence: Believing in your skills and abilities in a work environment. (e.g., “Her professional confidence led to a promotion.”)
  • Quiet Confidence: A subtle, understated belief in oneself; not overly boastful. (e.g., "He had a quiet confidence that was very appealing.")
  • Fake Confidence: Appearing confident when you don't truly feel it. (Use this carefully – it can come across as disingenuous.)

4. Phrases Using "Confidence":

  • With confidence: “He sang with confidence.”
  • Lack of confidence: “She lacked confidence in her decision.”
  • Boost confidence: “Exercise can boost your confidence.”
  • Build confidence: "Taking small steps can build your confidence."
  • Have confidence in yourself: "Believe in your ability to succeed."
  • Express confidence: “She clearly expressed her confidence in the project.”

5. Synonyms (Words with similar meanings):

  • Assurance
  • Certainty
  • Self-assurance
  • Security
  • Trust
  • Poise

Tips for Using “Confidence” Effectively:

  • Show, don’t just tell: Instead of saying "He was confident," describe what he did that showed his confidence (e.g., "He spoke clearly and directly, making eye contact with everyone in the room.")
  • Context is key: The specific meaning of "confidence" will depend on the situation.
  • Don't overdo it: Too much talk about your "confidence" can sound arrogant.

Could you tell me a bit more about how you'd like me to help you with "confidence"? For example, are you:

  • Trying to use it in a specific sentence?
  • Wanting to know how to build your own confidence?
  • Looking for more examples of how it's used in different contexts?

Synonyms for the word confidence

Idioms of the word confidence

be in somebody’s confidence
to be trusted with somebody’s secrets
  • He is said to be very much in the president's confidence.
take somebody into your confidence
to tell somebody secrets and personal information about yourself
  • She took me into her confidence and told me about the problems she was facing.
  • She thought she might take Leo into her confidence.

Comment ()