I trusted

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "I trusted" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when expressing a past feeling of reliance or confidence in someone or something. Example: "I trusted him to keep my secret, but he told everyone."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

54 human-written examples

"I trusted my brother".

The New York Times - Sports

So I trusted him".

The New York Times - Sports

"I trusted those people.

Independent

"I trusted them".

The New York Times

"I trusted him completely".

The New York Times

I trusted them completely.

The New Yorker

"I trusted Julie's judgment.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

4 human-written examples

"I trust".

The New York Times

I trust Tsipras".

The Guardian

I trust no one".

The New York Times - Books

I trust Ray completely".

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using the phrase “I trusted”, ensure the context clearly indicates who or what was trusted, and the basis for that trust. This avoids ambiguity and strengthens your communication.

Common error

Avoid using “I trusted” without specifying a clear reason or basis for your trust. Without context, it may sound naive or unintentionally imply a lack of discernment.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "I trusted" functions as a declaration of past reliance or confidence. Ludwig examples show this phrase used to express faith in individuals, processes, or institutions. According to Ludwig AI, this phrase is correct and usable in written English.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

77%

Science

13%

Wiki

4%

Less common in

Formal & Business

2%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "I trusted" is a common and grammatically correct way to express past reliance or confidence, as confirmed by Ludwig AI. It is most frequently found in news and media contexts. When using this phrase, clarity and explicitness regarding the object of trust are essential. While generally appropriate, consider a more precise term for formal writing. Alternative phrases like "I relied on" or "I had faith in" can offer more nuance. "I believed" is a present conviction, contrasting with the past reliance of "I trusted".

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

I had faith in

Focuses more on belief and conviction rather than demonstrated reliability.

I relied on

Emphasizes dependence and the act of counting on someone or something.

I depended on

Highlights a state of needing someone or something for support or fulfillment.

I had confidence in

Stresses a feeling of assurance and certainty about someone's abilities or trustworthiness.

I believed in

Implies a strong conviction in the honesty or integrity of someone.

I took at face value

Indicates accepting something without questioning its truthfulness.

I counted on

Highlights the expectation that someone would fulfill an obligation or promise.

I banked on

Suggests placing a significant amount of hope or expectation on someone or something.

I presumed

Indicates making an assumption based on limited evidence.

I assumed

Implies taking something for granted without necessarily having proof.

FAQs

How can I use “I trusted” in a sentence?

You can use "I trusted" to express past reliance or confidence in someone or something. For example, "I trusted him to keep my secret, but he told everyone."

What can I say instead of “I trusted”?

You can use alternatives like "I relied on", "I had faith in", or "I depended on" depending on the context.

Is it always appropriate to use “I trusted” in formal writing?

While generally acceptable, consider whether a more precise term like "I depended on" or "I relied on" might better convey the specific nature of the reliance in a formal context.

What's the difference between “I trusted” and “I believe”?

“I trusted” indicates a past reliance or confidence based on experience or observation. “I believe” expresses a present conviction or opinion, without necessarily implying past reliance.