Is skeptical a positive or negative word?

It is usually neutral. It can be useful when you want to show careful thinking.

What is the difference between skeptical and doubtful?

Doubtful means unsure. Skeptical means you want evidence before you believe it.

Can I say skeptical of a person?

Yes, but it usually means you do not fully trust that person's claim or idea.

Is skeptical common in academic writing?

Yes. It is common in essays, reports, and formal discussion.

← Dictionary

skeptical

/ˈskɛp.tɪ.kəl/

IELTSAcademic

adjective

Not easily believing something is true. A skeptical person wants proof before accepting an idea, claim, or promise.

I was skeptical about the sudden discount.
She gave a skeptical look.
The teacher remained skeptical of the excuse.

Adinary Nuance

Skeptical is close to doubtful, suspicious, and cynical, but it is not the same as them. Doubtful means you are not sure; skeptical means you need proof. Suspicious suggests you think something may be bad or dishonest. Cynical is stronger and often means you expect bad motives.

In other languages

Vietnamese: hoài nghi
Spanish: escéptico
Chinese: 怀疑的
Japanese: 懐疑的な
Korean: 회의적인

Etymology

Skeptical comes from Greek skeptikos, meaning “inquiring” or “reflective.” It entered English through Latin and French, and it keeps the idea of careful questioning.

Common phrases

skeptical ofskeptical aboutremain skeptical

Synonyms

doubtful questioning uncertain

Related words

skeptic doubt cynical suspicious

Frequently asked questions

Is skeptical a positive or negative word?: It is usually neutral. It can be useful when you want to show careful thinking.
What is the difference between skeptical and doubtful?: Doubtful means unsure. Skeptical means you want evidence before you believe it.
Can I say skeptical of a person?: Yes, but it usually means you do not fully trust that person's claim or idea.
Is skeptical common in academic writing?: Yes. It is common in essays, reports, and formal discussion.