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
- trusting
- believing
- confident
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
More words like Skeptical
- AbolishC1
To formally put an end to a system, practice, or institution.
- AbortionC1
the deliberate ending of a pregnancy at an early stage
- AbsenceC1
the fact of somebody being away from a place where they are usually expected to be; the occasion or period of time when somebody is away
- AbsentC1
not in a place because of illness, etc.
- AbsorbB2
To take in a liquid, gas, or other substances.
- AbstractB2
based on general ideas and not on any particular real person, thing or situation
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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.

