What is faithful? Pronunciation and usage in English

Let's break down how to use the word "faithful" in English. It's a surprisingly versatile word with multiple meanings! Here's a breakdown of its different uses, with examples:

1. Loyal and True (Most Common)

• Meaning: This is the most frequent usage. It describes someone who is consistently devoted, reliable, and steadfast in their commitment.
• Synonyms: loyal, devoted, reliable, trustworthy, steadfast, true
• Examples:
  • "She was a faithful companion throughout his illness." (meaning she was supportive and never left him)
  • "He's a faithful employee, always arriving on time and working hard." (meaning he's dependable)
  • "Their marriage was built on faithful love and respect." (meaning they were constantly devoted to each other)
  • "The dog was a faithful guardian, always watching over the house."

2. Accurate and True to the Original (Regarding Representation)

• Meaning: When referring to literature, music, or art, "faithful" means accurately representing something else, often a story, event, or person.
• Synonyms: accurate, true to life, realistic, faithful reproduction
• Examples:
  • "The movie was a faithful adaptation of the novel." (meaning it closely followed the plot and details of the book)
  • "The painter created a faithful portrait of the queen." (meaning the portrait looked very similar to the queen)
  • “The documentary was faithful to the historical record.” (meaning it presented accurate information about the past.)

3. Religious (Concerning God or a Religious Figure)

• Meaning: In a religious context, "faithful" describes someone who is devoted to God or a religious belief system. It's about obedience and adherence to principles.
• Synonyms: devout, pious, committed, obedient
• Examples:
  • "The apostle Paul was a faithful servant of God." (meaning he was devoted to God's will)
  • "He strove to live a faithful life according to his religious teachings." (meaning he tried to always follow those teachings)

4. (Less Common) Of a Dog – Reliable and Vetted

• Meaning: Historically (and still sometimes used), "faithful" described a dog that had been carefully examined by a veterinarian to ensure it was healthy. Now, it is much less common and often considered outdated usage.
• Example: "The veterinarian declared the puppy to be a faithful specimen.” (meaning the dog had been thoroughly checked for health)

Tips for Choosing the Right Meaning:

• Context is Key: The surrounding words and the overall situation will usually tell you which meaning is intended.
• Consider the Subject: Is it a person, a work of art, or a description of a belief system?

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Resources for Further Learning:

• Merriam-Webster Dictionary: https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/faithful
• Oxford Languages Dictionary: https://www.oxfordlearnersdictionaries.com/definition/english/faithful

Do you want me to:

• Give you more examples of how to use "faithful" in a specific sentence?
• Explain the difference between "faithful" and another similar word (like "loyal")?