Mistrust: meaning, definitions and examples

Use this word when you think someone or something is not honest or reliable. It implies a general lack of trust based on past experiences or perceptions.

• 'She had a general mistrust of strangers' or 'His actions led to mistrust among his colleagues
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This word is used when you believe someone or something is untrustworthy or when there is a specific reason not to trust. Distrust is often stronger and more active than mistrust.

• 'There was widespread distrust in the government's policies' or 'He has a deep distrust of modern technology
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This word is used when you think that someone might be guilty of wrongdoing or there might be something hidden. It often carries a negative connotation.

• 'The police acted on suspicion of theft' or 'Her sudden wealth aroused suspicion among her neighbors
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This is used when you are uncertain about something or someone. It often implies questioning the truth or reliability without full disbelief.

• 'I doubt he will come to the party' or 'There is some doubt about the accuracy of the report
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Use this word when you have a questioning attitude or doubt about things often considered true or good. It is common in science, philosophy, and critical thinking.

• 'Her claims were met with skepticism from the scientific community' or 'He approached the new policy with skepticism
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This word is often used when there is a lack of trust due to past experiences or a general sense of suspicion. It implies a deeper, often emotional, sense of uncertainty about someone's intentions or actions.

• She couldn't help but feel a sense of mistrust towards her new colleague after he took credit for her idea
• The community's mistrust of the local government had grown over the years

Distrust is used when there is an active decision not to trust someone or something based on evidence or a strong reason. It conveys a more rational, considered form of skepticism.

• Many people express distrust in online news sources, fearing misinformation
• His consistent lying led to widespread distrust among his friends

Suspect is used when there is a belief or impression that someone is guilty of an offense or has done something wrong, but without solid proof. It often has a negative connotation.

• The police suspect that the man is involved in the robbery
• I suspect she knows more about the issue than she's letting on

This word is appropriate when someone is unsure or hesitant about certain information, abilities, or scenarios. It implies uncertainty rather than an outright belief that something is untrustworthy.

• She had doubts about her ability to finish the marathon
• If you ever have any doubt about the instructions, please ask for clarification