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Meaning & use

absolute confidence

noun·Advanced

Last updated

UK/ˌæbsəluːt ˈkɒnfɪdəns/
US/ˈæbsəluːt ˈkɑːnfɪdəns/

Meanings

  1. noununcountable

    A feeling of complete certainty about something, with no doubt at all.

    Grammar: Uncountable: say 'absolute confidence', not 'an absolute confidence' or 'absolute confidences'.

    Patterns

    • with absolute confidence
    • have absolute confidence in someone/something
    • express absolute confidence that ...

    She spoke with absolute confidence about the team's chances.

    The doctor had absolute confidence in the test results.

    He expressed absolute confidence that the project would succeed.

  2. noununcountable

    A strong belief that you can trust someone or something completely.

    Grammar: Often followed by 'in': 'absolute confidence in the system'.

    Patterns

    • absolute confidence in someone/something
    • inspire absolute confidence
    • lack absolute confidence

    Investors showed absolute confidence in the new management.

    The public no longer has absolute confidence in the police force.

    Her calm voice inspired absolute confidence in the passengers.

Common combinations

with absolute confidence
He answered every question with absolute confidence.
have absolute confidence in
I have absolute confidence in her ability to lead.
express absolute confidence
The coach expressed absolute confidence before the final match.
absolute confidence that
They had absolute confidence that the bridge was safe.
lack absolute confidence
Some employees lack absolute confidence in the new software.

Synonyms and how they differ

complete certainty
Focuses on the state of being sure rather than the feeling; 'absolute confidence' often implies a personal, emotional belief.
total trust
Emphasizes reliance on someone; 'absolute confidence' can also refer to belief in your own abilities.
assurance
A calmer, often outward show of confidence; 'absolute confidence' is stronger and more absolute.

Opposites

doubtuncertaintydistrust

Word family

confident adjective
Feeling sure about yourself or something.
confidently adverb
In a way that shows you are sure.
self-confidence noun
Belief in your own abilities.

Commonly confused: absolute confidence or overconfidence?

absolute confidence vs overconfidence

Overconfidence is too much confidence, often leading to mistakes; 'absolute confidence' is neutral and simply means complete certainty.

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