that belief

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "that belief" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when referring to a specific belief that has been previously mentioned or is understood in the context. Example: "Many people hold that belief, but I have my doubts about its validity."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

Evaluating that belief matters.

The New York Times

That belief was profoundly mistaken.

The New York Times

That belief was widely held.

The Economist

That belief has been tested.

The New York Times

We have that belief now.

Independent

That belief has shaped our politics.

The New Yorker

That belief may well have been dangerous.

The Economist

That belief permeated the Dodgers' hierarchy.

The New York Times - Sports

"I have that belief about myself".

The New York Times

He may be mistaken in that belief.

The New Yorker

On paper, legally, that belief works.

The Economist

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "that belief", ensure the context clearly defines the belief you are referring to, avoiding ambiguity for the reader.

Common error

Avoid using "that belief" without establishing what the belief is beforehand. Always ensure the reader knows what specific belief you are referencing.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "that belief" functions as a demonstrative nominal phrase, referring to a specific belief that has been previously mentioned or is understood within the context. As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase is both correct and readily usable in written English.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

61%

Science

19%

Formal & Business

8%

Less common in

Wiki

5%

Encyclopedias

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "that belief" is a demonstrative nominal phrase used to reference a specific belief that is understood from the context. Ludwig AI analysis confirms its grammatical correctness and usability. It is prevalent in news and media, science, and formal business contexts. While various alternatives exist, such as "that conviction" or "that opinion", the choice depends on the specific nuance intended. When using "that belief", ensure clarity by either explicitly stating the belief beforehand or relying on shared knowledge between writer and reader. Failing to do so can lead to ambiguity.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

that conviction

Replaces "belief" with a stronger term, implying a firmer and more unwavering stance.

that opinion

Substitutes "belief" with a more subjective term, suggesting a personal viewpoint rather than a deeply held principle.

that principle

Indicates a fundamental truth or proposition that serves as the foundation for a system of belief or behavior.

that assumption

Replaces "belief" with a term implying something taken for granted without proof.

that idea

Uses a broader term, encompassing any thought or concept, not necessarily a firmly held belief.

that understanding

Suggests a cognitive grasp of something, which may or may not equate to a belief.

that viewpoint

Focuses on a particular perspective or angle of looking at something.

that notion

Refers to a general understanding or vague idea, often less concrete than a belief.

that perception

Highlights the way something is regarded, understood, or interpreted.

that judgment

Emphasizes the act of forming an opinion or conclusion about something.

FAQs

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

Use "that belief" to refer back to a previously mentioned or commonly understood belief. For example, "Many held "that belief", but recent evidence suggests otherwise."

What are some alternatives to "that belief"?

Depending on the context, you can use alternatives such as "that conviction", "that opinion", or "that assumption".

Is it always necessary to explicitly state the belief before using "that belief"?

While not always mandatory, explicitly stating the belief beforehand ensures clarity and avoids ambiguity. If the belief is widely known or easily inferred, it might be omitted.

What's the difference between "that belief" and "this belief"?

"That belief" refers to a belief that has already been discussed or is generally known, while "this belief" typically introduces a new belief or one that is about to be explained.