those we trust

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "those we trust" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to refer to individuals or groups that one has confidence in or relies upon. Example: "In times of crisis, we often turn to those we trust for support and guidance."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

14 human-written examples

Instead of liking those we trust, we trust those we like.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Perhaps we should consider the effects of increased teaching time on those we trust with our nation's future.

The New York Times - Magazine

Yet, as the California arrests show, criminal activity among those we trust to handle and deliver our mail is not unknown.

The Washington Post

This was true for, among others, a radical leftist organization, which suggests this type of fear triggers not conservatism per se, but rather an impulse to close ranks with those we trust.

University of California, Berkeley

Its advice is always current, too, obtained on the fly from those we trust, like friends, but whose collective expertise far exceeds that of the relatively few people we happen to know personally.

The New York Times

As people, we make decisions based on those we trust, because they show us why it's worth it.

Forbes

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

46 human-written examples

It is never easy, but it is made harder when those we trusted judge, abandon or blame us.

Huffington Post

Trust and trustworthiness are therefore distinct although, ideally, those whom we trust will be trustworthy, and those who are trustworthy will be trusted.

SEP

Those whom we trust to look after the national interest must watch what they say and do, lest it seem that the nation's trust has been abused.

The New York Times

How corporations can use this will be up to us, or put another way, licensed to those who we trust to use this data in our best interests.

TechCrunch

Many of those whom we trust to be closest to our children end up being pedophiles, abusers, betrayers of the trust we vest in them.

Huffington Post

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using the phrase "those we trust", ensure the context clearly defines who these individuals or groups are. Specificity enhances the impact and clarity of your message.

Common error

Be cautious of using "those we trust" in overly broad statements. Without specific context, the phrase can lose its meaning and appear cliché. Always ground it in a tangible situation or relationship.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "those we trust" functions as a noun phrase, specifically a relative clause acting as a subject or object within a sentence. As seen in Ludwig AI, this phrase often introduces a discussion about the responsibilities and potential failings of trusted individuals.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

58%

Academia

18%

Science

12%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

4%

Wiki

4%

Formal & Business

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "those we trust" serves as a powerful identifier for individuals or groups in positions of confidence and reliance. As confirmed by Ludwig AI, it's grammatically correct and frequently used to discuss expectations, responsibilities, and potential betrayals. While its usage is not exceptionally common, it appears across diverse contexts, particularly in news and media and academic discussions, indicating a neutral to professional register. When employing this phrase, remember to provide clear context to avoid overgeneralization and enhance the impact of your message.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

people we rely on

Replaces the abstract "those" with the more concrete "people", focusing on reliance.

individuals we have faith in

Substitutes "trust" with "have faith in", adding a nuance of belief and conviction.

persons we depend on

Emphasizes the dependence aspect of trust, highlighting reliance for support or assistance.

people we confide in

Focuses on the aspect of sharing secrets and personal information.

authorities we believe

Highlights belief in figures of authority, rather than general trust.

figures we look up to

Implies respect and admiration, a more specific type of trust.

mentors we believe in

Suggests that the target is a mentor

advisors whose guidance we accept

Adds the idea of advice or counseling is being provided

the ones we believe

Simplify to the subject of believing only

leaders we have confidence in

Specifies the relationship to leaders instead of general people.

FAQs

How can I use "those we trust" in a sentence?

You can use "those we trust" to refer to people or entities on whom we rely or in whom we place our confidence. For example: "In times of crisis, we often turn to "those we trust" for guidance and support."

What are some alternatives to "those we trust"?

Alternatives include "people we rely on", "individuals we have faith in", or "persons we depend on". The best choice depends on the specific nuance you wish to convey.

Is it better to say "those whom we trust" or "those we trust"?

While "those whom we trust" is grammatically correct, it sounds more formal and somewhat archaic. "Those we trust" is perfectly acceptable in modern English and is generally preferred for its simplicity and naturalness.

In what contexts is "those we trust" most appropriate?

"Those we trust" is suitable in various contexts, particularly when discussing relationships, ethics, or decision-making processes. It is often used in discussions about societal expectations, personal values, and the responsibilities of individuals in positions of authority.