steadfast belief

USAGE SUMMARY

"steadfast belief" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to describe a belief that is held firmly, even in the face of difficulty or opposition. For example, "Her steadfast belief in her own abilities propelled her to success despite many challenges along the way."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

58 human-written examples

If anything, their steadfast belief in Mormonism made them more rock'n'roll.

The Guardian - Music

Ambassador Bremer, thank you for your steadfast belief in freedom and peace.

The New York Times

Despite the savagery in Iraq, another free election is about to be held thanks to a steadfast belief in liberty.

The New York Times

The financial crisis and subsequent government bailouts prompted some American policy makers to wonder if their steadfast belief in minimal state intervention had run its course.

The New York Times

But inequality swelled on his watch, and what made him seem so out of touch was his steadfast belief that nothing could be done to diminish it.

The New Yorker

S.& P. first designated it AAA in 1941, reflecting a steadfast belief that the richest nation in the world would not default on its debt payments.

The New York Times

The steadfast belief in a personal God maintained by Henri Bergson, a French intuitionist, was joined to his belief in a spiritual cosmic force (élan vital).

Encyclopedia Britannica

Tucker also explores the demands that Monet placed upon himself, his responses to market pressures, and his steadfast belief in the power of art to express ideas.

Yale University

But he is signalling a steadfast belief that the digital share of the advertising cake is going to grow very sharply and significantly.

The Guardian

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

2 human-written examples

Mr Watson explained that the condemnations shoehorned into the report reflected his steadfast beliefs.

The Economist

Clinton certainly has steadfast beliefs.

Huffington Post

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "steadfast belief" to convey a sense of unwavering commitment and conviction, particularly when facing opposition or challenges. For example, "Despite the criticism, her steadfast belief in the project never wavered."

Common error

Avoid using "steadfast belief" when the belief is based on unsubstantiated claims or ignores evidence. "Steadfast belief" implies a considered and resilient conviction, not necessarily an irrational one.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "steadfast belief" functions as a noun phrase, where the adjective "steadfast" modifies the noun "belief". According to Ludwig AI, this phrase is grammatically correct and widely used. Examples show it acting as the subject or object of a sentence, describing a firm and unwavering conviction.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

76%

Academia

12%

Formal & Business

3%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

2%

Science

2%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "steadfast belief" is a common and grammatically correct expression used to convey a strong and unwavering conviction. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's frequently found in news and media, as well as in academic writing. Its strength lies in emphasizing not just the intensity of a belief, but also its resilience and persistence. When using the phrase, consider the context to ensure it appropriately reflects a considered conviction rather than blind faith. Alternatives such as "unwavering conviction" or "unshakable faith" can offer slightly different nuances, focusing on different aspects of the belief's strength. Be aware of overusing "steadfast belief" if simpler terms like "strong belief" are equally suitable.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

unwavering conviction

Replaces "belief" with "conviction" to emphasize a firmly held opinion, while "unwavering" strengthens the sense of persistence.

unshakable faith

Substitutes "belief" with "faith" to imply a strong, often religiously tinged, confidence, and "unshakable" underscores its resilience.

firm conviction

Emphasizes the strength of the belief but uses more concise language.

resolute conviction

Highlights the determined aspect of the belief, portraying it as a conscious and firm decision.

unyielding faith

Similar to "unshakable faith" but emphasizes the refusal to compromise or change the belief.

strong conviction

A more general term for a deep-seated belief. Loses some of the intensity of "steadfast".

deep-seated faith

Suggests that the faith is ingrained and fundamental to the person's identity.

enduring faith

Highlights the persistence of the belief over time, emphasizing its lasting quality.

abiding conviction

Suggests a belief that remains constant and reliable over time.

lasting conviction

Similar to "enduring faith" but may be slightly less intense in its connotation.

FAQs

How can I use "steadfast belief" in a sentence?

You can use "steadfast belief" to describe someone's strong and unwavering conviction in something, for example: "His "steadfast belief" in justice drove him to become a lawyer."

What are some alternatives to "steadfast belief"?

Some alternatives include "unwavering conviction", "unshakable faith", or "firm conviction". The best choice depends on the specific context.

Is it redundant to say "steadfast belief"?

While "steadfast" already implies strength, using it with "belief" emphasizes the unwavering nature of the conviction, making it a valid and common expression.

What distinguishes "steadfast belief" from "strong belief"?

"Steadfast belief" conveys not only strength but also resilience and persistence over time, whereas "strong belief" simply indicates intensity.