Translation guide
The English word 'credible' describes something or someone that can be believed or trusted. In Japanese, the most natural way to express this depends on what is being described: a person, a story, a source, or evidence. Common translations include 信頼できる (trustworthy/reliable) and 信用できる (believable). This guide organizes expressions by the type of credibility needed.
Describing a person, institution, or source that is reliable and can be trusted.
Most common and versatile. Literally 'can be trusted/reliable'. Used for people, organizations, information sources, etc.
He is a credible journalist.
I'm looking for a credible source of information.
Emphasizes believability or trustworthiness of a person's words or character. Often used for individuals.
His story is credible.
Means 'certain', 'reliable', or 'solid'. Often used for information, evidence, or facts.
We need credible evidence.
Formal/literary. Means 'has credibility'. Used for statements, reports, or claims.
The report is credible.
Describing a narrative, statement, or excuse that seems true or plausible.
Potential form of 信じる (to believe). Means 'can be believed'. Natural for stories, claims, or excuses.
His excuse was not credible.
That story is not very credible.
Means 'plausible' or 'specious'. Often implies something sounds credible but may not be true. Can be slightly negative.
Literally 'has a ring of truth'. Used when something feels real or credible.
Her performance was credible.
Describing a threat, risk, or scenario that is realistic and should be taken seriously.
信頼できる is broader and refers to reliability based on past performance or reputation. 信用できる is more about believing someone's words or character in a specific instance. For a credible source, 信頼できる is better. For a credible alibi, 信用できる or 信じられる works.
The English word 'credible' does not have a single direct equivalent in Japanese. Translating it as クレディブル is not natural. Choose the expression based on context.
He told a credible lie.