skepticism

noun

skep·ti·cism ˈskep-tə-ˌsi-zəm

Synonyms of skepticism next

: an attitude of doubt or a disposition to incredulity either in general or toward a particular object

: the doctrine that true knowledge or knowledge in a particular area is uncertain

: the method of suspended judgment, systematic doubt, or criticism characteristic of skeptics

: doubt concerning basic religious principles (such as immortality, providence, and revelation)

Choose the Right Synonym for skepticism

uncertainty, doubt, dubiety, skepticism, suspicion, mistrust mean lack of sureness about someone or something.

uncertainty may range from a falling short of certainty to an almost complete lack of conviction or knowledge especially about an outcome or result.

assumed the role of manager without hesitation or uncertainty

doubt suggests both uncertainty and inability to make a decision.

plagued by doubts as to what to do

dubiety stresses a wavering between conclusions.

felt some dubiety about its practicality

skepticism implies unwillingness to believe without conclusive evidence.

an economic forecast greeted with skepticism

suspicion stresses lack of faith in the truth, reality, fairness, or reliability of something or someone.

regarded the stranger with suspicion

mistrust implies a genuine doubt based upon suspicion.

had a great mistrust of doctors

Examples of skepticism in a Sentence

She regarded the researcher's claims with skepticism. It's good to maintain a healthy skepticism about fad diets.

Recent Examples on the Web

These examples are automatically compiled from online sources to illustrate current usage. Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.

However, the use of AI in cybersecurity has generated both optimism and skepticism among stakeholders and these decisions come with pros and cons. —

Earl Carr, Forbes, 3 Nov. 2024 Others argue that the restitution shouldn’t be perceived with blind nationalism but with skepticism, because in the aftermath of the exhibit’s grand opening, little will have changed for the everyday individuals struggling to survive. —

Carlos Aguilar, Los Angeles Times, 2 Nov. 2024 Trump, and many Republican down ballot candidates, have leaned into promoting early voting this election cycle, despite years of skepticism. —

The Hill Staff, The Hill, 2 Nov. 2024 Previous North Korean claims regarding missile capabilities have often been met with skepticism. —

Gordon G. Chang, Newsweek, 1 Nov. 2024 See all Example Sentences for skepticism