Synonyms for

Suspicious

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

Definition

having or showing a cautious distrust of someone or something

Synonyms & similar words

shady suspect untrusting leery wary mistrustful fishy funny distrustful doubtful mistrustful questionable dubious disbelieving skeptical untrustworthy distrusting wary uncertain uneasy apprehensive leery guarded jittery nervous paranoid unsure cynical

Synonyms by register

Formal

dubious questionable skeptical wary

Informal

shady fishy sketchy weird

Literary

foreboding ominous premonitory

Antonyms

trusting confident unquestioning assured certain unsuspicious innocent

Common collocations

  • suspicious activity
  • suspicious mind
  • suspicious circumstances
  • suspicious behavior
  • suspicious person
  • suspicious package
  • suspicious look

Word family

noun suspicion
verb suspect
adjective suspicious
adverb suspiciously

Usage note

Often used to describe something that arouses doubt or distrust. Be mindful of its negative connotation, as it implies a belief that something is wrong or dishonest.

Example sentences

  1. I was suspicious of the stranger who offered me candy.
  2. The teacher was suspicious of the student's excuse for not doing his homework.
  3. The police officer was suspicious of the man's behavior and decided to question him.
  4. The company's suspicious activities were uncovered by the authorities.
  5. The detective was always suspicious of everyone he met.

Quotes

  • It is better to be too skeptical than too trusting.
  • A suspicious mind is a healthy mind.
  • Suspicion is the companion of mean souls and the bane of all good society.

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