Definition

1. 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

1. marked by or given to doubt
   • a skeptical attitude
   • a skeptical listener
2. denying or questioning the tenets of especially a religion
   • a skeptical approach to the nature of miracles