Synonyms for

Dubious

Verb / ˈdu:bi:ʌs / Another word for dubious — explore alternatives below. For syllable breakdowns and pronunciation, see this word on Syllablesworld.

Definition

uncertain or doubtful

Synonyms & similar words

inquestion dubitable doubtful suspicious uncertain doubtful questionable ambiguous indefinite unclear indecisive equivocal iffy shady unreliable untrustworthy debatable disputable vague equivocating hesitant indeterminate skeptical

Synonyms by register

Formal

questionable uncertain doubtful unreliable

Informal

shady sketchy fishy iffy

Literary

perilous uncertain shadowy

Antonyms

certain sure confident convinced definite unquestionable obvious

Common collocations

  • dubious honor
  • dubious claim
  • dubious origin
  • dubious legality
  • dubious character
  • dubious reputation
  • dubious practice

Word family

noun dubiousness
adverb dubiously

Usage note

Often used to express suspicion or uncertainty about the truth, validity, or honesty of something. Can sometimes imply a negative judgment.

Example sentences

  1. The student gave a dubious explanation for why he didn't do his homework.
  2. I have a dubious feeling about that new restaurant.
  3. The politician's actions were seen as dubious by many people.
  4. The detective had a dubious suspect in mind.
  5. The weather forecast was dubious about the chance of rain.

Quotes

  • A man who has never gone to school may steal from a freight car; but if he has a university education, he may steal the whole railroad. -Theodore Roosevelt
  • A dubious friend may be an enemy in camouflage. -Mokokoma Mokhonoana
  • The only thing more dangerous than a person who can't read is a person who can read but doesn't. -Unknown

Try these popular words

the and that for you with was this are have not from

Practice

Play the Word Synonyms game · Choose level (start near 1)

Worksheets

Grade 4 · Grade 5 · Grade 6

Topics

Guides

Explore more words