Cool MateSuspicion
UK /["/səˈspɪʃn/"]/US /["/səˈspɪʃn/"]/
Definition
a feeling that somebody has done something wrong, illegal or dishonest, even though you have no proof
In simple words: A feeling that something is wrong or not true.
Examples
- She felt a strong suspicion that someone was hiding the truth.
- His unexplained absence aroused suspicion among his colleagues.
- The detective’s suspicion focused on the main suspect in the case.
- There was suspicion that the documents had been forged deliberately.
- Despite the suspicion surrounding him, he maintained his innocence.
- Suspicion can sometimes be based on misunderstandings rather than facts.
Usage notes
Use 'suspicion' when you think something might be bad or wrong, often without proof. It's appropriate in serious contexts but less suitable in casual conversation.
Grammar pattern
suspicion + of + object
Memory hint
Think of 'sus-pi-cion' as a spy who suspects something suspicious.
Collocations
- strong
- considerable
- deep
- degree
- level
- entertain
- harbour/harbor
- have
- arise
- exist
- linger
- above suspicion
- beyond suspicion
- on suspicion of
- the finger of suspicion
- grounds for suspicion
- an object of suspicion
- strong
- considerable
- deep
- degree
- level
- entertain
- harbour/harbor
- have
- arise
- exist
- linger
- above suspicion
- beyond suspicion
- on suspicion of
- the finger of suspicion
- grounds for suspicion
- an object of suspicion
- strong
- considerable
- deep
- degree
- level
- entertain
- harbour/harbor
- have
- arise
- exist
- linger
- above suspicion
- beyond suspicion
- on suspicion of
- the finger of suspicion
- grounds for suspicion
- an object of suspicion
Synonyms
- distrust
- mistrust
- doubt
- skepticism
- suspicion
Antonyms
- trust
- confidence
Common mistakes
- Confused with 'suspect' which is a verb.
- Using 'suspicion' as a countable noun incorrectly.
- Mixing it up with 'distrust', which has a different meaning.