Synonyms for

Skepticism

Verb / ˈskeptɪˌsɪzʌm / Another word for skepticism — explore alternatives below. For syllable breakdowns and pronunciation, see this word on Syllablesworld.

Definition

Skepticism is a feeling of doubt or disbelief about something.

Synonyms & similar words

scepticism disbelief mentalrejection agnosticism incredulity doubt mistrust suspicion disbelief uncertainty cynicism distrust discredit incredulity unbelief disapproving scepticism hesitation questioning unconvinced misgiving suspiciousness sceptical misbelief dubiety

Synonyms by register

Formal

doubt disbelief incredulity hesitation

Informal

doubts questioning suspicion hesitancy

Literary

unbelief mistrust

Antonyms

belief credence faith trust certainty conviction assurance

Common collocations

  • healthy skepticism
  • healthy dose of skepticism
  • academic skepticism
  • philosophical skepticism
  • scientific skepticism
  • raise skepticism
  • express skepticism
  • maintain skepticism

Word family

noun skepticism
verb skepticize
adjective skeptical
adverb skeptically

Usage note

Skepticism generally implies a questioning attitude rather than outright disbelief. It is often used in academic, scientific, or philosophical contexts.

Example sentences

  1. Her skepticism about the new restaurant was proven right when she got sick from the food.
  2. He approached the new product with skepticism, unsure if it was worth the money.
  3. The scientist's skepticism led her to conduct more experiments before drawing a conclusion.
  4. The detective had a healthy skepticism about the suspect's alibi.
  5. His skepticism about the supernatural made him dismiss the ghost stories as nonsense.

Quotes

  • Skepticism is the first step towards truth.
  • Skepticism is the beginning of faith.
  • Skepticism is a virtue in history as well as in philosophy.

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