dubious

What does “dubious” mean?

adjective.hesitating or doubting.

SAT Usage

this term often appears in contexts related to skepticism, ethics, or decision-making, particularly in discussions of trustworthiness or credibility. It emphasizes a sense of uncertainty or a lack of conviction, distinguishing it from words like "suspicious," which suggests a more active distrust, while this term conveys a more passive doubt or hesitation.

Common Confusions

Dubious implies a sense of hesitance or uncertainty about something's credibility, while suspicious usually suggests a more active distrust or belief that something is wrong or deceptive.

Example Sentences

• The evidence for the claim seemed highly dubious.

• She had a dubious expression on her face as she listened to his explanation, clearly unconvinced by his excuses.