skeptical
5 synonyms and 0 antonyms for skeptical, grouped by meaning and by how common each one is.
Adj — Doubtful or unconvinced; inclined to question rather than simply accept a claim.
Synonyms
Less common
Still standard English, but they carry more weight.
Rare, literary or technical
Precise, but they will stand out — check the sense before using one.
How to use skeptical
The word patterns that sound natural to a native speaker.
Etymology
From "skeptic" plus the adjective ending "-al."
Full origin of skeptical →Frequently asked questions
What does “skeptical” mean?
The word “skeptical” means doubtful or unconvinced; inclined to question rather than simply accept a claim. In plain terms, not easily convinced; questioning until there's good evidence.
How do you pronounce “skeptical”?
“Skeptical” is pronounced SKEHP-tih-kuhl (/ˈskɛptɪkəl/ in IPA).
How do you use “skeptical” in a sentence?
Here is “skeptical” used in a sentence: “I'm skeptical that the plan will actually work.”
What part of speech is “skeptical”?
“Skeptical” is an adjective.
Is “skeptical” a common word?
“Skeptical” is an uncommon word in modern English.
What is the difference between skeptical and cynical?
Skeptical means doubtful or unconvinced about a specific claim, requiring evidence before accepting it. Cynical implies a broader, more negative outlook, assuming people's motives are generally selfish or dishonest, rather than questioning one particular claim.
What is the difference between skeptical and pessimistic?
Skeptical describes questioning whether something is true, while pessimistic describes expecting the worst outcome regardless of evidence. A skeptical person withholds belief until convinced; a pessimistic person assumes things will go badly.
How do you use skeptical in a sentence with a preposition?
Skeptical is typically followed by "of" or "about," as in "skeptical of the claim" or "skeptical about the plan." Both prepositions are standard in modern English usage.