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

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.

Biden’s skepticism toward Egypt was demonstrated by his avoidance of a traditional first call with Sisi after his election. —

Michael Wahid Hanna, Foreign Affairs, 26 Nov. 2024 When it was decided that Harris would be the nominee, my skepticism of her abilities remained unchanged. —

Paul MacRae, Baltimore Sun, 26 Nov. 2024 One idea that initially met with widespread skepticism but is now gaining traction: a dedicated bond issue—joint European debt, guaranteed in some way by member state treasuries—to pay for weapons production and other defense preparedness. —

Tamar Jacoby, Forbes, 26 Nov. 2024 Local leaders across Arizona signed off on election results this week with little fanfare, even in counties where certification ceremonies have previously been met with skepticism. —

Sasha Hupka, The Arizona Republic, 26 Nov. 2024 See all Example Sentences for skepticism