"self-belief" vs "self belief"

Question

"self-belief" vs "self belief"

Both "self-belief" and "self belief" are correct, but they are used in different contexts. "Self-belief" is a hyphenated compound noun used to refer to confidence in oneself, while "self belief" is a noun phrase where "self" acts as an adjective describing the type of belief.

Last Updated: March 31, 2024

Use "self-belief" when referring to confidence in oneself or belief in one's abilities.

Examples:

Her self-belief helped her overcome many challenges.
Self-belief is crucial for success in any field.
Lack of self-belief can hinder personal growth.

Alternatives:

self-confidence
self-assurance
self-esteem
self-trust
self-reliance

Use "self belief" when referring to belief in oneself or one's principles without the hyphen.

Examples:

His self belief in his abilities never wavered.
Self belief is important for maintaining motivation.
She has a strong self belief in her values.

Alternatives:

belief in oneself
belief in self
personal belief
individual belief
inner belief

Answer 1

self-belief

This is a correct and commonly used compound noun in English.

Answer 2

self belief

This is also correct, but it is used as a noun phrase where "self" describes the type of belief.

"self-belief" vs "self belief"

self-belief

self belief

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