Betray – Definition, Meaning and Synonyms

Definition of Betray (adjective)

Betray is an adjective that refers to something or someone characterized by treachery, disloyalty, or deceit. It suggests a sense of violating trust or breaking a promise.

Examples

• His betrayed actions shocked the entire community.
• Her betraying behaviour caused irreversible damage to friendships.
• The betraying nature of his plans left everyone furious.
• Their betraying tactics in the game angered all participants.
• A betraying move in the negotiation undermined his credibility.
• The betrayed attitude of the team leader demoralized everyone.
• She felt betrayed by his unexpected betrayal.
• The betraying methods used by the company sparked protests.

Meaning

• Disloyal
• Deceptive
• Unfaithful

Pronunciation

• UK: /bɪˈtreɪ/ (bih-TRAY)
• US: /bɪˈtreɪ/ (bih-TRAY)

Synonyms

• Deceptive
• Unfaithful
• Disloyal
• Treacherous
• Backstabbing
• Double-crossing
• Treachery
• Falsifying
• Dishonest
• Untrustworthy

Usage Tips for Betray

• Use for actions or behaviours that involve breaking trust.
• Expressing strong feelings of disappointment or anger.
• Typically refers to relationships, promises, or allegiances.
• Best reserved for severe cases of disloyalty.

Origin

Betray (Middle English: betraye)

• From Old French betrayer
• It originates from the Latin word tradere, meaning hand over or deliver.
• Related to betrayal, indicating the violation of trust.
• First used to signify delivering someone to harm or danger.

Similar Words to Betray

• Deceptive
• Disloyal
• Treachery
• Unfaithful
• Backstabbing
• Dishonest

FAQs

Q: What is the meaning of betray in Urdu?

Ans: In Urdu, betray means دھوکہ دینا or غداری کرنا.

Q: How do we use betray in a sentence?

Ans: She felt deeply hurt when her best friend betrayed her trust.

Q: What’s the difference between betray and deceive?

Ans: Betray involves a violation of trust, emotionally painful, while deceive refers more to misleading or lying without necessarily breaching trust.

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