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Dubiously Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

๐Ÿคจ
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dubiously

[หˆdjuหbษชษ™sli ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Adverb

in a doubtful or uncertain manner

Dubiously is an adverb that describes an action done in a way that shows doubt or uncertainty. It is often used to indicate skepticism or lack of confidence in a situation.

Synonyms

doubtfully, skeptically, uncertainly.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
dubiously

This word is often used when expressing a feeling of suspicion or disbelief, often with a slightly negative connotation.

  • She looked at him dubiously, unsure if she could trust him.
  • He raised his eyebrows dubiously at the claim made by the salesman.
skeptically

This word is used when someone questions the validity or truth of something, often from a standpoint of doubt and critical thinking.

  • He looked at the experimental results skeptically, needing more evidence.
  • She listened to the story skeptically, aware that the details didn't quite add up.
uncertainly

This term is used to describe a state of being unsure or undecided, often reflecting hesitation or confusion.

  • He spoke uncertainly, wavering on what to say next.
  • She walked uncertainly into the room, not knowing what to expect.
doubtfully

Used when expressing uncertainty or a lack of conviction about something. It often indicates a hesitation or a lack of confidence.

  • She answered the question doubtfully, unsure of the correct response.
  • He shook his head doubtfully, uncertain if the plan would succeed.

Examples of usage

  • He answered her question dubiously, unsure of the correct response.
  • She looked at him dubiously, wondering if he was telling the truth.
Context #2 | Adjective

hesitating or doubting

Dubiously can also be used as an adjective to describe someone who is hesitant or doubtful. It implies a lack of trust or belief in something.

Synonyms

doubtful, skeptical, suspicious.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
dubiously

Use when expressing a sense of doubt or disbelief about something in a cautiously negative way.

  • She looked at the strange recipe dubiously before deciding to try it.
  • He raised an eyebrow dubiously at the tall tales being told.
suspicious

Use when having a sense of mistrust or belief that someone is likely involved in something dishonest or harmful. Has a negative connotation.

  • The police became suspicious of his behavior at the scene of the crime.
  • She grew suspicious when he started avoiding her questions.
skeptical

Use when showing a questioning attitude or a lack of faith in something, often requiring evidence or proof.

  • She was skeptical of his claims until she saw the evidence.
  • The scientist remained skeptical about the new theory.
doubtful

Use when you are uncertain or have low confidence in the truth or likelihood of something.

  • It's doubtful that we'll make it to the event on time.
  • He was doubtful about the effectiveness of the proposed solution.

Examples of usage

  • The witness gave a dubiously vague description of the suspect.
  • She cast a dubiously glance at the questionable evidence.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Psychology

  • People often feel dubiously about situations where they lack clear evidence or sufficient information.
  • Dubious feelings can lead to critical thinking, encouraging individuals to seek more information before making decisions.
  • Cognitive biases can play a role; when people are initially doubtful, they may seek out confirming evidence to justify their feelings.

Pop Culture

  • In movies and television, characters often portray dubious intentions when they hide their true motives, creating tension in plots.
  • Songs frequently explore themes of dubious relationships, where trust and sincerity are questioned.
  • Popular literature often features dubiously characters whose unreliable narratives challenge readers' perceptions.

Communication

  • Using 'dubiously' in conversations can indicate skepticism toward what someone is saying, adding emphasis to your doubt.
  • The term often appears in debates or critical discussions, suggesting a need for more evidence or clarity.
  • In written communication, such as articles, it can signal the writer's cautious stance on a specific claim or argument.

Business

  • In business negotiations, saying you're 'dubiously' about a deal may give you leverage to ask for better terms.
  • Companies might use surveys to gauge consumer reactions, where dubious feedback can indicate potential issues with products.
  • A dubiously received proposal might lead to greater scrutiny and discussions before any final decision is made.

Origin of 'dubiously'

Main points about word origin

  • The word comes from the Latin 'dubiosus', which means 'doubtful' or 'uncertain'.
  • It was adopted into English in the late 14th century, reflecting an emerging need to express doubt in conversation.
  • Related words like 'dubiousness' evolved, showing the concept of being doubtful has long been part of English.

The word 'dubiously' is derived from the adjective 'dubious,' which comes from the Latin word 'dubius' meaning 'doubtful' or 'uncertain.' The suffix '-ly' is added to form the adverb 'dubiously,' indicating doubt or uncertainty in a manner. The word has been used in English since the 16th century.

See also: dubiousness.

Word Frequency Rank

At rank #28,376, this word represents specialized academic or technical vocabulary. It's less frequently encountered but may be valuable in specific contexts.