Definition
To believe or think that something is true. It can also mean to trust in someone or something.
Example
Je crois que tu as raison sur ce point.
Show translation
I think you are right about that.
Etymology
From Latin *credere* ("to believe, to trust"), ancestor also of English *credible*, *credit*, and *creed*. The Latin root carried the sense of entrusting one's heart to something — *cre-* possibly related to *cor* (heart) + *dare* (to give).
Cultural note
French speakers use *croire* where English toggles between "believe" and "think." *Je crois que oui* ("I think so") is everyday conversational filler. Watch out for the Italian false friend *credere* — nearly identical in form and meaning, which can help Romance learners but may cause confusion. Also note: *croire en* (to believe in, spiritually) vs. *croire à* (to believe in, factually) is a subtle distinction that trips up even advanced learners.