This past week’s column topic was My personal motto, so for anyone studying English, here are some ways to express your beliefs!

The verb “believe” can express the belief that something is real, it can express faith or trust in something, or it can express a value. 

I believe in + noun/gerund

Ex. I believe in ghosts. (= I think that ghosts are real.)

Ex. I believe in my ability to succeed. (= I trust in my ability to succeed.)

Ex. I believe in being on time. (= I value punctuality (being on time).)

It’s also used as an alternative to “I think (that)...” to express an opinion.

I believe + (that) noun clause

Ex. I believe (that) every day is a new day. (= I think that every day is a new day.)

Ex. I believe (that) we have to keep trying to be better. (= I think that we have to keep trying to be better.)

Here are some other ways to express belief with a noun clause.

I feel (that)...

Ex. I feel (that) it’s a little expensive. (= I believe that it’s a little expensive.)

It seems (to me) (that)...

Ex. It seems (to me) (that) we’re finished. (= I believe that we’re finished.)

I’m convinced (that)...

Ex. I’m convinced (that) this is the best idea. (= I strongly believe that this is the best idea.)

The verb “see” is also sometimes used to express belief.

I see s.t./s.o. (as)…

Ex. I see it as a huge problem. (= I believe that it is a huge problem.)

Ex. I see myself as being qualified. (= I believe that I am qualified.)

Ex. I see myself moving in a few years. (= I believe that I will move in a few years.)

I hope this will help you to express your beliefs in English!

Zach