Synonyms for "Suspicion"
The noun "suspicion" refers to a feeling or belief that something is wrong, that someone is guilty of something, or that something is not as it seems. Here are some synonyms and their explanations:
- Doubt
- Explanation: "Doubt" implies a lack of certainty or a feeling of uncertainty about the truth, reality, or reliability of something or someone. It's a more general term than "suspicion" and can cover a wide range of uncertainties. When you have a suspicion, you usually have a more specific feeling of something being amiss than a simple doubt.
- Example: I have my doubts about his story. He seems a bit evasive, and this gives rise to a suspicion that he might be hiding something.
- Distrust
- Explanation: "Distrust" is a stronger feeling than doubt. It means a lack of trust or confidence in someone or something. While suspicion might be a hunch or a feeling that something could be wrong, distrust implies a more established negative belief about a person's or thing's integrity or reliability.
- Example: Her constant lies led to my distrust of her. And this distrust was based on a series of suspicions that had built up over time as I noticed her inconsistent behavior.
- Misgiving
- Explanation: "Misgiving" refers to a feeling of doubt, hesitation, or uneasiness, especially about a future event or the wisdom of a decision. It's often related to a sense of foreboding. A suspicion can lead to misgivings when you start to think about the possible negative consequences or implications of what you suspect.
- Example: I had misgivings about going on a trip with him because I had a suspicion that he was not a reliable travel companion.
- Skepticism
- Explanation: "Skepticism" is a more intellectual or philosophical stance of doubting the truth or validity of a claim or belief. It's not as personal as suspicion. However, when you have a suspicion, it can lead to a more skeptical attitude as you question the authenticity or honesty of a situation.
- Example: His suspicious behavior towards the valuable items in the store led to the store owner's skepticism about his intentions.
- Wariness
- Explanation: "Wariness" means being cautious or on one's guard. It often stems from a suspicion that there might be a potential danger or problem. It's more about a state of being watchful due to a suspicion or a sense of possible harm.
- Example: The wariness of the villagers was evident when a stranger came to town. Their suspicion of outsiders made them cautious and watchful.