trust is earned

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "trust is earned" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when discussing the concept of trust and how it develops over time through actions and behaviors. Example: "In any relationship, it's important to remember that trust is earned, not given freely."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

29 human-written examples

Trust is earned.

The New York Times

And that trust is earned over time.

The New York Times

That is as true online as anywhere else and, of course, trust is earned slowly and lost quickly.

The Guardian

It takes hard work and lots of exposure to convince people to trust a new brand, and once that trust is earned, it sticks.

The New York Times

But trust is earned, and it is much easier to earn it face to face – not at the end of a phone, or in an email exchange.

The Guardian - Money

That trust is earned because of your values, your commitment to serving all as equals, and your openness to people's humanity.

The New Yorker

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

31 human-written examples

Trust was earned in phases 1 and 2 regarding the negotiation and development of the management plan.

Ecological Processes

This trust was earned, not given.

Huffington Post

The trust was earning 17 to 18percentt a year, and she could pull funds from it at any time.

Forbes

Not only does it facilitate communication and exchange of information, but the Internet also affects how trust among them is earned.

Crime Science

Trust is something that is earned, not given.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When emphasizing the importance of reliability and consistent behavior in fostering relationships, use the phrase "trust is earned" to underscore that trust isn't freely given but rather cultivated through demonstrable actions.

Common error

Avoid assuming that trust is a default setting in new relationships or ventures. Instead, actively demonstrate trustworthiness to build a solid foundation.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "trust is earned" functions as a statement of principle. It expresses a fundamental truth about how trust is developed and acquired. It's a declarative statement, presenting trust as something actively acquired through effort, aligning with Ludwig's observation that the phrase is commonly used.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Wiki

25%

Science

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Encyclopedias

5%

Social Media

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "trust is earned" is a very common and grammatically correct expression used to emphasize that trust is not automatically given but acquired through consistent positive actions. As confirmed by Ludwig, this principle applies across various contexts, including news, science, and general discussions. While the phrase has a neutral register, it's crucial to actively demonstrate trustworthiness rather than assuming inherent trust. Related phrases such as "trust must be built" and "trust is not given" offer alternative ways to convey the same message, enriching communication and writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

Trust must be built

Emphasizes the effort and process involved in establishing trust.

Trust has to be earned

Highlights the necessity of earning trust, adding a sense of obligation.

Trust needs to be earned

Similar to "trust has to be earned", but suggests a requirement for establishing trust.

Trust is not given

Focuses on the idea that trust is not automatic and must be obtained.

Trust is developed over time

Highlights that trust is a process that requires time to build and strengthen.

Trust is a process

Highlights that trust is a process that requires time to build and strengthen.

Trust is merited

Suggests that trust is deserved based on one's actions or qualities.

Trust is acquired

Indicates trust is gained or obtained through specific means.

Build trust through actions

Suggests that trust is created through positive behavior

Establish trust through actions

Emphasizes that trust is established through positive and reliable behavior over time.

FAQs

How can I effectively use "trust is earned" in a sentence?

Use "trust is earned" to emphasize that trust isn't automatic but develops through consistent positive actions, such as "In any successful partnership, "trust is earned" through mutual respect and reliable behavior".

What are some alternative phrases to "trust is earned"?

You can use phrases like "trust must be built", "trust is not given", or "trust has to be earned" to convey similar meanings with slight variations in emphasis.

Is it better to say "trust is earned" or "trust is given"?

"Trust is earned" is generally preferred when highlighting the active process of building trust through actions. "Trust is given" implies an initial, perhaps naive, assumption of trustworthiness. The former is often seen as more realistic and prudent.

What's the difference between "trust is earned" and "trust must be maintained"?

"Trust is earned" focuses on the initial development of trust, while "trust must be maintained" emphasizes the ongoing effort required to keep trust intact once it has been established. Both are crucial in long-term relationships.