I trusted them

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "I trusted them" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when expressing a past belief or confidence in someone or a group of people. Example: "After everything that happened, I realized that I trusted them more than I should have."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

35 human-written examples

"I trusted them".

The New York Times

I trusted them completely.

The New Yorker

"I trusted them," she said.

The New York Times

I trusted them at first".

The New York Times

Of course I trusted them".

The New York Times - Magazine

"They were in my tradition, so I trusted them.

The New York Times - Magazine

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

24 human-written examples

"I trust them now.

The New York Times

I trust them.

The New York Times

Basically I trust them.

The Guardian - Tech

But I trust them.

The New York Times

So, I trust them".

The New York Times - Sports

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Consider the strength of the word "trusted" and ensure it accurately reflects the level of faith or reliance you placed in the individuals. If the trust was misplaced, clarify this in the following sentence for more clarity.

Common error

Avoid using "I trusted them" without specifying the area or aspect of their lives you trusted them in. Being specific adds credibility and avoids potential misunderstandings. For example, instead of "I trusted them", specify "I trusted them with my financial advice" or "I trusted them to keep my secret."

Linguistic Context

The phrase "I trusted them" primarily functions as a statement expressing a past belief, reliance, or confidence in a group of people. As seen in Ludwig's examples, it is often used to narrate past events or explain previous decisions based on trust.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

90%

Formal & Business

5%

Science

3%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

1%

Wiki

0.5%

Reference

0.5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "I trusted them" is a common phrase used to express past reliance or confidence in a group of people. Ludwig's analysis, supported by numerous examples from reputable sources like The New York Times and The Guardian, confirms that the phrase is grammatically correct and widely used, particularly in news and media contexts. When using this phrase, clarity is crucial; ensure the context makes it clear who "them" refers to and the specific area of trust. While generally neutral in tone, the impact of the phrase can vary depending on whether the trust was well-placed or betrayed. The alternatives like "I relied on them" and "I had faith in them" can offer nuanced variations of meaning.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

I had faith in them

This alternative emphasizes belief and confidence in their abilities or integrity.

I relied on them

This suggests a dependence on their actions or support.

I had confidence in them

Focuses on the feeling of assurance about their capabilities.

I depended on them

Highlights the necessity of their involvement or help.

I had complete confidence in them

Emphasizes the absolute certainty and trust placed in them.

I had no doubts about them

Indicates a lack of reservations or skepticism.

I put my faith in them

Suggests a deliberate act of placing trust and belief in them.

I believed in them

Highlights the conviction that they were capable and trustworthy.

I took them at their word

Implies accepting their statements or promises without questioning.

I gave them the benefit of the doubt

Suggests trusting them even in the absence of complete proof or certainty.

FAQs

What does "I trusted them" mean?

The phrase "I trusted them" indicates a past belief or confidence in a group of people. It means you relied on their honesty, integrity, or abilities at some point in the past. It often implies that this trust may no longer exist or that its status has changed.

What can I say instead of "I trusted them"?

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

How do I use "I trusted them" in a sentence?

Use "I trusted them" to express a past reliance or confidence in a group of people. For example, "I trusted them to handle the project responsibly", or "At the time, I trusted them implicitly with my personal information".

Is "I trust them" different from "I trusted them"?

Yes, "I trust them" expresses present trust or confidence, while "I trusted them" indicates a past feeling of trust that may or may not continue to the present. The tense change signifies a shift in your belief or reliance.