B2verb2K

Suspect

UK /["/səˈspekt/","/səˈspekts/","/səˈspektɪd/","/səˈspektɪŋ/"]/US /["/səˈspekt/","/səˈspekts/","/səˈspektɪd/","/səˈspektɪŋ/"]/

Definition

to have an idea that something is probably true or likely to happen, especially something bad, but without having definite proof

In simple words: to think someone might be guilty or bad

Examples

  • The detective began to suspect that the alibi was fabricated.
  • I suspect she took the last piece of cake.
  • Many people suspect that the company is hiding something.
  • The police have a list of suspects in the robbery case.
  • You can’t just suspect someone without any evidence.
  • The teacher would suspect cheating if the same answers appeared.

Usage notes

Used when you have a feeling that someone is responsible for something negative. Not typically used for casual conversation unless referring to criminals. In formal contexts, it may require clarification.

Grammar pattern

suspect + object

Memory hint

Think 'sus-pect' like a detective looking at a suspect in a movie.

Collocations

  • strongly
  • rather
  • rightly
  • begin to
  • have reason to
  • have reasons to
  • be widely suspected
  • rightly
  • wrongly
  • of
  • have grounds for suspecting somebody/​something
  • have grounds to suspect somebody/​something
  • have reason to suspect somebody/​something

Synonyms

  • doubt
  • question
  • suspect
  • imply
  • sceptic

Antonyms

  • trust
  • believe
  • assure

Common mistakes

  • Confused with 'suspected' - remember to use 'suspect' for present tense.
  • Using 'suspect' without an object - always have something or someone you suspect.
  • Mispronouncing it as 'suspect' like the noun form, when it is used as a verb.