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Naively - Meaning, Definition & English Examples

Naively means acting or thinking in a simple, innocent, or overly trusting way, often without awareness of potential risks or complexities. It suggests a lack of experience or sophistication.

naively

/naɪˈivli/ /naɪˈiːvli/

Definition:

Acting with innocent simplicity, lacking experience or worldly wisdom.

Synonyms:

innocently, gullibly, trustingly, credulously

Part of Speech:

adverb

Antonyms:

cynically, shrewdly, skeptically

Common Collocations:

naively optimistic, naively believe, naively trust, naively assume

Derivatives:

naivety, naive, naiveness

Usage Tips:

Use "naively" to describe actions done without suspicion or critical thinking. Avoid overuse in formal contexts.

Common Phrases:

naively hopeful, naively charming, take it naively

Etymology:

Derived from French "naïf," meaning natural or innocent; entered English in the 17th century.

Examples:

  • 1. She smiled naively at the stranger’s offer.
  • 2. He naively believed everything he read online.
  • 3. They acted naively, unaware of the risks involved.
  • 4. She answered the question naively and honestly.

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