Credentials
krɪˈdɛnʃəlz
Definitions
2 meaningsDocuments or qualifications that indicate a person's identity, competence, or authority; often used to verify a person's trustworthiness or eligibility.
krɪˈdɛnʃəlz
Documents or qualifications that prove a person's identity or competence.
The job required a strong set of credentials.
💡 Simply: Imagine you're trying to get into a super-secret club. Your credentials are like your 'get-in' card – things like an ID, a membership card, or maybe even a special handshake. They prove you're supposed to be there! Like when you show your driver's license to rent a car.
👶 For kids: Things like a name tag or a paper that shows you're allowed to do something, like being a doctor or a teacher.
More Examples
Before the conference, attendees were asked to display their credentials.
The university carefully reviewed his academic credentials.
How It's Used
"Applicants must submit their credentials, including their resume and transcripts."
"The security guard checked the visitor's credentials before allowing them entry."
"She earned excellent credentials as a scientist."
The qualities, skills, experience, and achievements that make someone suitable or qualified for a specific role or position.
krɪˈdɛnʃəlz
A person's qualities, achievements, or reputation that inspire trust or confidence.
Her credentials as a leader were evident from her past successes.
💡 Simply: Think of it like this: if you want to hire a dog walker, you want to know their credentials – like, do they have experience, do they have references? It's all about showing what makes them trustworthy and good at the job.
👶 For kids: Things that show you're good at something or that people can trust you.
More Examples
He possessed the necessary credentials to be a successful entrepreneur.
The company looked for someone with impressive marketing credentials.
How It's Used
"The candidate's strong credentials on foreign policy impressed voters."
"The CEO's credentials in the tech industry were highly regarded."
Idioms & expressions
to present one's credentials
To show or provide proof of one's qualifications or identity.
"Before entering the building, the ambassador had to present their credentials."
to check one's credentials
To verify the identity and/or qualifications.
"The security team checked everyone's credentials before allowing entry."
From Medieval Latin *credentialis* (of or relating to credit), from *credere* (to believe, trust). The word evolved to refer to documents or qualifications that inspire trust.
The term gained prominence in the 18th and 19th centuries in diplomatic and bureaucratic contexts, referring to documents that established an individual's authority and legitimacy.
Memory tip
Think of a 'credit card' – credentials establish credit (trust) for your identity or abilities.