trustworthy

Trustworthy is an adjective used to describe someone or something that is reliable, honest, and deserving of trust. A trustworthy actor consistently meets commitments, provides accurate information, and acts in ways that align with stated values. Trustworthiness implies accountability and a track record of reducing uncertainty for others, especially when outcomes are uncertain or potentially harmful.

Within trust research, three core components are commonly cited: ability (competence to perform needed tasks); benevolence (genuine concern for others’ interests); and integrity (adherence to ethical principles and honesty). These elements help distinguish mere competence from trustworthy behavior.

In everyday use, trustworthy individuals are expected to be predictable, truthful, and fair; trustworthy organizations are expected to honor contracts, disclose relevant risks, and hold themselves answerable for mistakes. In technology and AI, 'trustworthy' often encompasses safety, reliability, privacy, explainability, and accountability, with governance mechanisms and independent auditing used to demonstrate compliance.

Assessment of trustworthiness depends on evidence, reputation, and governance transparency. Because trust is socially constructed, perceptions can vary across cultures and contexts, and claims of trustworthiness should be supported by verifiable performance and openness to scrutiny.