skepticism

noun

ˈskep-tə-ˌsi-zəm How to pronounce skepticism (audio)
Definition of skepticismnext
as in doubt
a feeling or attitude that one does not know the truth, truthfulness, or trustworthiness of someone or something our alibi was met with skepticism at first, but we gradually convinced them of the truth

Synonyms & Similar Words

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Antonyms & Near Antonyms

Synonym Chooser

How does the noun skepticism differ from other similar words?

Some common synonyms of skepticism are doubt, dubiety, mistrust, suspicion, and uncertainty. While all these words mean "lack of sureness about someone or something," skepticism implies unwillingness to believe without conclusive evidence.

an economic forecast greeted with skepticism

In what contexts can doubt take the place of skepticism?

In some situations, the words doubt and skepticism are roughly equivalent. However, doubt suggests both uncertainty and inability to make a decision.

plagued by doubts as to what to do

When is it sensible to use dubiety instead of skepticism?

The meanings of dubiety and skepticism largely overlap; however, dubiety stresses a wavering between conclusions.

felt some dubiety about its practicality

When might mistrust be a better fit than skepticism?

While the synonyms mistrust and skepticism are close in meaning, mistrust implies a genuine doubt based upon suspicion.

had a great mistrust of doctors

When could suspicion be used to replace skepticism?

The words suspicion and skepticism can be used in similar contexts, but suspicion stresses lack of faith in the truth, reality, fairness, or reliability of something or someone.

regarded the stranger with suspicion

Where would uncertainty be a reasonable alternative to skepticism?

While in some cases nearly identical to skepticism, uncertainty may range from a falling short of certainty to an almost complete lack of conviction or knowledge especially about an outcome or result.

assumed the role of manager without hesitation or uncertainty

Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of skepticism Two former Republican lawmakers say that the GOP sentiment toward public broadcasting has shifted over time — from frequent support to skepticism to open hostility. —Deirdre Walsh, NPR, 12 June 2025 He’s joined by several other analysts in their skepticism about the team one year out. —Kaylah Jackson, NBC news, 11 June 2025 But public health experts had expected Kennedy could choose members who share his skepticism of immunization. —Annika Kim Constantino, CNBC, 11 June 2025 Amplitude’s story shows that skepticism, when rooted in care for the customer and clarity of purpose, is a strength instead of a weakness. —Alexander Puutio, Forbes.com, 10 June 2025 See All Example Sentences for skepticism
Recent Examples of Synonyms for skepticism
  1. doubt
  2. suspicion
  3. uncertainty
  4. distrust
Noun
  • But there was never any doubt in their intent: put a creative, Midwest spin on country music.
    — Garret K. Woodward, Rolling Stone, 10 June 2025
  • As for the future, there is no doubt that if peace can be achieved, many billions of dollars will have to be spent before Ukraine can again supply its economy and people with the energy needed for a fully functioning state.
    — Scott Montgomery, Forbes.com, 10 June 2025
Definition of doubt
Noun
  • Instead, this suspicion about the trailer tells a more interesting and deeper story about the relationship between marketing and proof in media.
    — Callum Booth, Forbes.com, 4 June 2025
  • At a time when Cold War tensions heightened curiosity and suspicion about all things Soviet, American consumers flocked to the new vodka as an edgy, exotic choice—drinking vodka became simultaneously an act of defiance and fascination.
    — Time, Time, 4 June 2025
Definition of suspicion
Noun
  • The number of card games on the market surged while consumers tightened their wallets in response to economic uncertainty.
    — Dr. Jenny Woo, CNBC, 14 June 2025
  • The Sun entered the 2025 WNBA season with uncertainty swirling around its future in Connecticut after its Mohegan Tribe ownership retained an investment bank to explore strategic financial options including selling the franchise.
    — Emily Adams, Hartford Courant, 14 June 2025
Definition of uncertainty
Noun
  • Many victims remain silent out of fear, distrust or the belief that reporting won’t help.
    — Jillian E. Snider, Boston Herald, 13 June 2025
  • Though talks are scheduled, mutual distrust and competing demands continue to cloud the path to any lasting agreement.
    — Amir Daftari, MSNBC Newsweek, 11 June 2025
Definition of distrust

Browse Nearby Words

skeptically
skepticism
skeptics
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Cite this Entry

“Skepticism.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/skepticism. Accessed 17 Jun. 2025.

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More from Merriam-Webster on skepticism

Nglish: Translation of skepticism for Spanish Speakers

Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about skepticism

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