naive

The word “naive” means lacking experience, judgement, or worldly knowledge; too trusting or simple in one's thinking. In plain terms, too trusting, inexperienced, or simple-minded about how things really work.

“Naive” is pronounced neye-EEV (/naɪˈiv/ in IPA).

Here is “naive” used in a sentence: “It was naive of him to think the deal had no hidden costs.”

Words with a similar meaning to “naive” include artless, childlike, callow, verdant, clueless and credulous.

The opposite of “naive” — its antonyms — are affected, mature, nuanced, pretentious and sophisticated.

Depending on how it is used, “naive” can be an adjective and a noun.

The word “naive” comes from Latin. From French naïve, the feminine of naïf, from Latin nativus meaning "native" or "natural." Related to the word "native.".

“Naive” is a fairly common word in modern English, usually learned at around the C1 level.

Naive describes someone lacking experience, judgement, or worldly knowledge and who is too trusting or simple in their thinking, often carrying a mildly critical tone. Innocent more broadly describes someone free from wrongdoing or corruption, which can overlap with naivety but does not always imply poor judgement.

Naive can be mildly critical, suggesting a lack of experience or overly trusting judgement, but it is often used gently rather than harshly, especially when describing youth or inexperience rather than foolishness.

Yes, naive can be used as a noun to refer to a person who is naive, meaning someone easily fooled, though this usage is less common than the adjective.