Meaning of Word
Skeptical refers to being doubtful, hesitant, or questioning the truth or validity of something. It indicates a mindset of not easily believing in or accepting claims or ideas without sufficient evidence or reasoning.
Definitions and Meaning in English
- Doubting or questioning the truth or validity of something.
- Unconvinced or unwilling to accept something as true or factual.
- Suspicious or wary about the claims or assertions made by others.
History and Origin
The word skeptical originates from the Greek word skeptikos, which means “inquisitive” or “thoughtful.” The term was used by ancient Greek philosophers, particularly the Skeptics, who questioned the possibility of knowledge and believed that certainty could not be attained. The word entered the English language in the 16th century, maintaining the connotation of doubt or questioning.
Detailed Explanation
To be skeptical means to approach situations, claims, or statements with a sense of doubt or disbelief until there is sufficient proof or evidence. Skepticism is often used as a method of inquiry, where one questions the truth of information rather than accepting it at face value. It can apply to both general worldviews and specific situations, such as doubting the reliability of a news source or being cautious about an unverified claim. While skepticism can be a healthy, rational approach, it can sometimes border on cynicism if it leads to constant distrust without reason.
Example Sentences
- She was skeptical of the new diet plan, fearing it might not be effective.
- The scientist remained skeptical about the claim until further studies were conducted.
- He was skeptical of the salesperson’s promises about the product’s benefits.
- Despite the convincing arguments, I still felt skeptical about the proposal.
- His skeptical attitude towards the government’s new policies made him cautious in his support.
- The public remained skeptical of the company’s claims of environmental responsibility.
- I was initially skeptical about her ability to finish the project on time, but she proved me wrong.
- The politician’s skeptical view of the opponent’s platform led him to challenge every point.
- After hearing several conflicting stories, I became skeptical of the whole situation.
Synonyms with Short Explanation
- Doubtful – Having uncertainty or lack of conviction about something.
- Cynical – Distrusting or believing that people are motivated by self-interest.
- Distrustful – Showing a lack of trust or confidence in something or someone.
- Suspicious – Having a belief or doubt that something is not as it seems.
- Unconvinced – Not persuaded or convinced by an argument, claim, or evidence.
Related Words with Short Explanation
- Skepticism – The attitude of doubting or questioning claims or assertions.
- Inquiry – A search for truth or information, often involving questioning or skepticism.
- Analysis – The process of examining something in detail to understand it or to uncover flaws.
- Rationalism – The belief that reason and logic should guide belief and decision-making, often linked with skepticism.
- Pragmatism – An approach to problems or situations that focuses on practical outcomes, often linked to skepticism about abstract theories.
More Matches with Short Explanation
- Questioning – The act of inquiring or expressing doubt about something.
- Disbelief – The inability or unwillingness to believe something.
- Critical – Involving careful evaluation or judgment, often with doubt.
- Analytical – Involving careful analysis, often showing skepticism toward unverified information.
- Guarded – Showing caution and reservation, typically in response to uncertainty or doubt.
Antonyms
- Trusting
- Confident
- Convinced
- Believing
- Sure