Dubious: meaning, definitions and examples

Used when you have doubts about something because it seems unlikely or not trustworthy. Often conveys a sense of skepticism or hesitation.

• He made a dubious claim about knowing the president personally.
• She was dubious about the success of the new project.

Used when you are uncertain or not confident about something happening. It expresses a lack of certainty or conviction.

• It's doubtful that he will arrive on time, given the heavy traffic.
• She is doubtful about the results of the experiment.

Used when you believe something is wrong or someone might be doing something illegal or dishonest. It usually implies a high level of mistrust.

• She gave him a suspicious look when he mentioned his alibi.
• The police found his behavior suspicious and decided to investigate further.

Used when something is open to doubt or suspicion, often implying that it might not be acceptable or ethical. It has a connotation of potential wrongdoing or unreliability.

• His actions during the meeting were highly questionable.
• The quality of the product is questionable at best.

Used when something is uncertain or doubtful, often referring to opinions or integrity.

• She gave him a dubious look when he explained his story.
• They were dubious about the success of the new project.

Used when something is suspected to be false, dishonest, or not reliable. It often refers to actions or decisions.

• The company's questionable practices were exposed by the investigation.
• His questionable decision cost the team their chance to win.

Has a negative connotation and is used to describe something or someone that seems dishonest or suspicious, often in an illegal or unethical context.

• He seemed like a shady character involved in illegal activities.
• They were caught making a shady deal in a back alley.

Used to describe someone or something that cannot be trusted or depended on, often referring to performance or trustworthiness.

• The car is old and unreliable, so it breaks down frequently.
• He is an unreliable friend who never shows up on time.