discredit
Intermediate (B1)
IPA: /dɪsˈkrɛdɪt/
KK: /dɪsˈkrɛdɪt/
noun
Definition
A situation where someone loses trust, belief, or respect from others, often resulting in a damaged reputation.
Example
The scandal led to the discredit of the politician, making it hard for him to regain public trust.
Conversation
Did you hear about the scandal that could discredit the organization?
Yeah, it's such a shame because they were doing great work.
I know! It's frustrating how quickly people will lose trust over one mistake.
Exactly, a single incident shouldn’t define their entire reputation.
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
doubt
disgrace
dishonor
Antonyms
trust
credibility
respect
transitive verb
Definition
To make someone or something seem untrustworthy or to harm their reputation.
Example
The scandal served to discredit the politician in the eyes of the public.
Tense Forms
Past: discredited
Past Participle: discredited
Conversation
Did you hear what they said about Mark's project?
Yeah, it seems like they're trying to discredit his hard work.
I know, right? It's frustrating to see people discredit someone who puts in so much effort.
Root Explanation
Discredit is formed from "dis-" (meaning apart or away) and "credit" (from Latin "credere", meaning to believe or trust). The word describes the act of taking away someone's trust or belief in something.
Memory Tip
Think of 'taking away' ('dis-') someone's 'trust' ('credit') — that's why discredit means to undermine someone's credibility.
Visually Confused Words
undiscredited
miscredited
credit