Suspicious Meaning

Suspicious

Definitions and Meaning in English

1. Having or showing a lack of trust or doubt about someone’s actions or intentions.
2. Feeling uncertain or skeptical about something, often due to a perceived lack of honesty or transparency.
3. Indicating or causing suspicion; arousing doubt or concern, especially when something seems out of the ordinary.

History and Origin

The word “suspicious” derives from the Latin suspicere, meaning “to look up at” or “to mistrust.” It evolved through Old French suspecter and entered English in the late 14th century. Initially associated with a general mistrust or doubt, the meaning expanded to include a broader sense of skepticism regarding people’s motives or actions. The term has been widely used in legal, social, and psychological contexts to describe an individual’s tendency to question the validity or sincerity of something or someone.

Detailed Explanation

“Suspicious” describes a feeling or attitude of doubt, uncertainty, or mistrust, particularly when something or someone appears unusual or potentially dishonest. It can apply to situations where actions, behavior, or circumstances seem out of place or raise concerns. The feeling of suspicion may arise from an instinctive response to something perceived as wrong or deceptive, or it may be the result of prior experiences or knowledge. Suspicion is often an emotional reaction, but it can also be a rational response to observed inconsistencies or risks.

Example Sentences

1. He gave me a suspicious look when I mentioned the missing documents.
2. The sudden change in her behavior made everyone suspicious of her intentions.
3. The police found the abandoned car in a suspicious location.
4. The email seemed suspicious, so I didn’t click on any of the links.
5. The manager grew suspicious when the sales reports didn’t match the inventory records.
6. I was suspicious about the offer, as it sounded too good to be true.
7. The neighbors were suspicious of the new resident, who kept to himself.
8. Her suspicious attitude made it hard to trust her during the investigation.
9. The large crowd gathered around the street corner seemed suspicious to the officers.

Synonyms with Short Explanation

1. Distrustful – Lacking trust or confidence, often based on doubts or uncertainties.
2. Wary – Cautious and careful, often due to doubt or suspicion.
3. Mistrustful – Having a lack of trust, typically due to doubt about sincerity or reliability.
4. Cautious – Being careful or guarded, especially when uncertain or suspicious.
5. Doubtful – Having uncertainty or lack of conviction, often tied to suspicion.

Related Words with Short Explanation

1. Skeptical – Having doubts or a questioning attitude, often linked to suspicion of others’ motives.
2. Paranoid – Excessively suspicious or fearful, often without clear evidence.
3. Incredulous – Unwilling to believe or accept something, often due to suspicion.
4. Uncertain – Lacking clarity or confidence, frequently associated with suspicion or doubt.
5. Apprehensive – Feeling uneasy or fearful about a situation, which can arise from suspicion.

More Matches with Short Explanation

1. Dubious – Doubtful or uncertain, often because something seems suspicious.
2. Guarded – Being careful or reserved, often due to suspicion or caution.
3. Uneasy – Feeling uncomfortable or unsure, sometimes because of suspicious circumstances.
4. Alarming – Something that raises concern or suspicion due to its unexpected nature.
5. Fishy – Informal term for something that seems suspicious or untrustworthy.

Antonyms

1. Trusting
2. Confident
3. Certain
4. Assured
5. Faithful