Cool MateSuspect
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.