skeptical
/'skeptikəl/ Cách viết khác : (skeptical) /'skeptikəl/
Học thuậtThân thiện
Definition
- Adjective:
- Marked by or given to doubt: Having or showing an attitude of doubt or a tendency to question the truth or validity of something.
- Denying or questioning fundamental tenets: Specifically questioning or doubting the principles or beliefs of a system, especially a religion or established doctrine.
Usage
- General Attitude of Doubt: Used to describe a person's mindset or approach when they are not easily convinced and require evidence.
- Example: She was skeptical about the salesman's claims.
- Questioning Beliefs or Claims: Used to describe a critical stance towards ideas, miracles, theories, or assertions.
- Example: Scientists remain skeptical until an experiment can be replicated.
Examples
Advanced Usage
- Philosophical Skepticism: In philosophy, "skeptical" relates to the theory that certain knowledge is impossible or that doubt should be suspended.
- Example: The philosopher adopted a skeptical position regarding the possibility of knowing objective reality.
- Skeptical Inquiry: Refers to a method of investigation that emphasizes questioning, critical thinking, and empirical evidence.
- Example: The journal promotes skeptical inquiry into paranormal phenomena.
Variants and Related Words
- Skeptic (noun): A person who doubts or questions accepted opinions or claims.
- Example: He is a skeptic when it comes to conspiracy theories.
- Skepticism (noun): The philosophical theory or the general attitude of doubt.
- Example: Her skepticism saved her from making a poor investment.
- Skeptically (adverb): In a skeptical manner.
- Example: She listened skeptically to the explanation.
Synonyms
- Doubtful: Feeling uncertain about something.
- Dubious: Hesitating or doubting; not to be relied upon.
- Cynical: Believing that people are motivated purely by self-interest; distrustful of human sincerity or integrity. (Note: Often stronger and more negative than "skeptical".)
- Incredulous: Unwilling or unable to believe something.
Antonyms
- Credulous: Having or showing too great a readiness to believe things.
- Gullible: Easily persuaded to believe something; credulous.
- Trusting: Showing or tending to have a belief in a person's honesty or sincerity.
Idioms and Common Phrases
- Take something with a grain of salt: To be skeptical about something; to not completely believe what you are told.
- Example: You should take his stories about his athletic career with a grain of salt.
- Raise an eyebrow: To show doubt, surprise, or mild disapproval.
- Example: The extravagant budget proposal made several board members raise an eyebrow.
Adjective
- marked by or given to doubt
- a skeptical attitude
- a skeptical listener
- denying or questioning the tenets of especially a religion
- a skeptical approach to the nature of miracles