B2verbrelationshipsemotions
US/bɪˈtreɪ/
UK/bɪˈtreɪ/
to hurt someone who trusts you by being disloyal; also to show a feeling you want to hide
In context
She felt betrayed when her best friend shared her secret with the whole class.
Many voters believe the party betrayed its promise to cut fuel prices.
He tried to sound calm, but his shaking hands betrayed his nervousness.
Words that go with betray
verb + noun
- betray the trustA doctor who sells patient records betrays the trust of the public.
- betray a friendHe would never betray a friend, even under pressure from his boss.
- betray a confidenceA good therapist will never betray a confidence without a serious reason.
- betray a secretI promised my sister I would not betray her secret to our parents.
- betray emotionHer face did not betray any emotion when the verdict was read.
- betray your country'Would you ever betray your country for money?' the journalist asked the spy.
Common mistakes
Incorrect:
He betrayed to his wife.Correct: He betrayed his wife.