Synonyms for

Naive

Verb / ˌnaɪˈi:v / Another word for naive — explore alternatives below. For syllable breakdowns and pronunciation, see this word on Syllablesworld.

Definition

lacking experience, wisdom, or judgment; innocent or naive

Synonyms & similar words

unenlightened uninitiated naif uninstructed primitive sophisticated uninitiate innocent unsuspecting credulous gullible trusting simple unworldly ingenuous naif green artless unpretentious unaffected unsophisticated childlike wide-eyed unsuspicious naive open impressionable

Synonyms by register

Formal

unsophisticated ingenuous guileless artless

Informal

green wet behind the ears newbie unworldly

Literary

uninitiated innocent unseasoned

Antonyms

sophisticated worldly cynical experienced astute shrewd discerning

Common collocations

  • naive assumption
  • naive question
  • naive approach
  • naive belief
  • naive optimism
  • naive child
  • naive remark

Word family

noun naivety
adjective naive
adverb naively

Usage note

Often carries a negative connotation, implying a lack of judgment or experience. Can sometimes be used neutrally to describe a lack of worldly knowledge.

Example sentences

  1. She was so naive that she believed everything her friends told her.
  2. The naive teenager thought he could get rich quick.
  3. I used to be naive and believed the world was fair.
  4. Don't be so naive to think that everyone has good intentions.
  5. The politician took advantage of the naive voters to win the election.

Quotes

  • The naive are always dazzled by the worldly and experienced.
  • Naivete is a quality best left behind in childhood.
  • It is better to be naive than cynical.

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