B1adjective2K

UK/["/ˈskeptɪkl/"]/US/["/ˈskeptɪkl/"]/

Meaning of Skeptical

having doubts that a claim or statement is true or that something will happen

In simple words: Not easily believing something; doubtful.

Skeptical in a sentence

  • I am skeptical about his chances of winning.
  • The public remain skeptical of these claims.
  • She looked highly skeptical.

How to use Skeptical

Use 'skeptical' when conveying doubt or disbelief in a situation. It's appropriate in both casual and professional contexts but may sound overly formal in very casual conversations.

Grammar pattern

skeptical + of/about + object

Memory hint

Sounds like 'skip-tickle' — imagine skipping over something that doesn’t seem believable.

Related words

Collocations with Skeptical

  • skeptical attitude
  • skeptical of claims
  • skeptical view
  • skeptical nature

Synonyms for Skeptical

  • doubtful
  • incredulous
  • unbelieving
  • disbelieving
  • mistrustful

Opposites of Skeptical

Common mistakes with Skeptical

  • Confusing with 'cynical', which is more about distrust of people's motives.
  • Using 'skeptical' without following it with 'of' or 'about'.
  • Overusing in contexts where simple doubt isn't implied.

Skeptical appears in

Skeptical in other languages

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Frequently asked questions about Skeptical

What does Skeptical mean?

Not easily believing something; doubtful.

What is the definition of Skeptical?

having doubts that a claim or statement is true or that something will happen

How do you use Skeptical in a sentence?

I am skeptical about his chances of winning.

Can you give another example of Skeptical?

The public remain skeptical of these claims.

What are synonyms for Skeptical?

Common alternatives include doubtful, incredulous, unbelieving, disbelieving, mistrustful.

What is the opposite of Skeptical?

Opposite meanings include trusting, believing, confident.

What words go with Skeptical?

It commonly pairs with skeptical attitude, skeptical of claims, skeptical view, skeptical nature.

What are common mistakes when using Skeptical?

Confusing with 'cynical', which is more about distrust of people's motives. Using 'skeptical' without following it with 'of' or 'about'. Overusing in contexts where simple doubt isn't implied.

How do you pronounce Skeptical?

US: /["/ˈskeptɪkl/"]/, UK: /["/ˈskeptɪkl/"]/. Listen to the audio above to hear native pronunciation.

When should I use Skeptical?

Use 'skeptical' when conveying doubt or disbelief in a situation. It's appropriate in both casual and professional contexts but may sound overly formal in very casual conversations.

What CEFR level is Skeptical?

"Skeptical" is at B1 level on the CEFR scale.