croire

Senses

1. 1.

   to believe

   to accept as true; to have faith in

2. 2.

   to think

   to suppose or imagine; to hold an opinion

3. 3.

   to believe in

   to have faith or trust in (a person, idea, or higher power)

Examples

• "Je crois qu'il arrivera demain."

  I think (believe) he will arrive tomorrow.

• "Elle ne croit pas aux fantômes."

  She doesn't believe in ghosts.

• "Crois-moi, c'est vrai."

  Believe me, it's true.

Usage

One of the most common French verbs. Often used with *que* (to introduce a clause) or *en/à* (to express belief in something). Common mistake: confusing *croire* (to believe) with *penser* (to think)-they overlap but *croire* emphasizes conviction, while *penser* is more general.