Definition

Adverb: 1. In a manner that shows distrust or doubt: Acting or looking in a way that indicates a belief that something may be wrong, dishonest, or dangerous. 2. In a way that causes suspicion; arousing doubt: In a manner that seems questionable or likely to be involved in something wrong.

Usage

The adverb "suspiciously" is used to modify a verb, describing how an action is performed. It indicates that the action is done with a feeling of suspicion or in a way that itself seems suspect. - It often follows verbs related to observation, such as look, regard, watch, or eye. - It can also modify actions that are themselves questionable, such as act, behave, or linger.

Examples

• Modifying an action showing doubt:
  • The security guard watched the man suspiciously as he paced near the vault.
  • She suspiciously examined the document for any signs of forgery.
• Modifying an action that arouses doubt:
  • The car was parked suspiciously close to the bank entrance.
  • He has been acting suspiciously quiet ever since the money went missing.

Advanced Usage

• "suspiciously like...": Used to suggest that something strongly resembles something else, often something undesirable or incriminating.
  • That sounds suspiciously like an excuse to me.
  • The substance looked suspiciously like the stolen jewelry.

Variants and Related Words

• Suspicious (adjective): Having or showing a cautious distrust of someone or something; causing one to have the idea or impression that something is wrong.
  • He gave a suspicious glance over his shoulder.
• Suspicion (noun): A feeling or thought that something is possible, likely, or true, especially something wrong or dangerous.
  • She had a suspicion that the answer was too simple.

Synonyms

• Distrustfully: In a manner showing lack of trust.
• Dubiously: In a manner indicating doubt.
• Questioningly: In a questioning or doubting manner.
• Warily: In a watchful, cautious manner due to potential danger.

Antonyms

• Trustingly: In a manner showing confidence and faith.
• Unquestioningly: Without doubt or question.

Related Phrases

• To eye someone/something suspiciously: To look at someone or something with doubt or mistrust.
  • The dog eyed the stranger suspiciously.
• To behave suspiciously: To act in a way that causes others to suspect wrongdoing.
  • Anyone behaving suspiciously near the perimeter will be questioned.

Adverb

1. with suspicion
   • she regarded the food suspiciously