Skepticism - Meaning, Definition & English Examples
Skepticism is an attitude of doubt or questioning toward claims, beliefs, or opinions. It involves seeking evidence and reasoning before accepting something as true.
Definition:
Doubt or disbelief in the truth or validity of something, often requiring evidence before acceptance.
Synonyms:
doubt, distrust, incredulity, cynicism, suspicion
Part of Speech:
noun
Antonyms:
belief, trust, credulity
Common Collocations:
healthy skepticism, scientific skepticism, public skepticism, widespread skepticism, express skepticism
Derivatives:
skeptic (noun), skeptical (adjective), skeptically (adverb)
Usage Tips:
Use "skepticism" to describe a questioning attitude rather than outright rejection; it implies a demand for proof.
Common Phrases:
take with a grain of salt, cast doubt on, raise eyebrows
Etymology:
Derived from Greek "skeptikos," meaning "inquiring" or "doubting," via Latin and French influences.
Examples:
- 1. Her skepticism about the claim led her to research further.
- 2. The scientist approached the theory with healthy skepticism until more data was available.
- 3. Public skepticism grew after the scandal was exposed.
- 4. His skepticism made him question every detail of the proposal.