Betrayal
/bɪˈtreɪəl/
nounIntermediateCommonGeneral
Idiom
Meaning
Questions
Definitions
1
An act of betraying someone; violation of a trust.
/bɪˈtreɪəl/
nounnegativeIntermediate
General
The act of betraying someone's trust or confidence.
His betrayal of his friend caused irreparable damage to their relationship.
💡 Simply: When someone breaks your trust.
More Examples
2
The act of betrayal was unforgivable.
How It's Used
Literature
"The novel explores themes of betrayal and revenge."
Politics
"The politician's betrayal of his constituents led to his downfall."
Idioms & expressions
betray one's trust
To violate someone's confidence or faith.
"He betrayed his trust by revealing confidential information."
From Old French *betraier, from *trahir 'to betray,' ultimately of Germanic origin.
The word has consistently held its negative connotation throughout history, referencing breaches of trust and loyalty.
Memory tip
Think of 'breaking a tray' – trust is broken.
Practice
betrayelbetraial
Usage
30%Spoken
70%Written