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Skeptically: meaning, definitions and examples

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skeptically

 

[ˌskepˈtɪkəli ]

Definition

Context #1 | Adverb

in a doubtful or questioning manner

Skeptically is an adverb that describes a person's attitude of doubt or disbelief towards something. It is often used to convey a sense of hesitation or suspicion.

Synonyms

disbelievingly, doubtfully, questioningly.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
skeptically

Used when someone is cautious about accepting information without proof.

  • They regarded the politician's promises skeptically, knowing his track record
  • She skeptically examined the fine print of the contract
doubtfully

Used when someone is uncertain or has doubts about something.

  • He raised an eyebrow doubtfully at the idea of completing the project in a day
  • She glanced doubtfully at the dark clouds ahead, wondering if they could still have the picnic
questioningly

Used when someone is showing curiosity or seeking clarification.

  • He looked at her questioningly, waiting for an explanation
  • The student raised her hand questioningly, unsure about the assignment details
disbelievingly

Used when someone is openly showing they do not believe something at all.

  • He shook his head disbelievingly when he heard the outrageous story
  • She laughed disbelievingly at the false news report

Examples of usage

  • He looked skeptically at the research findings, wondering if they were accurate.
  • She raised her eyebrows skeptically when he told her his excuse.
  • The teacher asked skeptically if the student had really completed the assignment.
  • I skeptically accepted his explanation, but I wasn't entirely convinced.
  • His tone of voice was skeptically sarcastic, indicating his lack of belief.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

  • The word comes from the Greek word 'skeptikos', meaning 'thoughtful' or 'inquiring'.
  • It entered the English language in the 17th century, influenced by the rise of scientific thought.
  • Originally, it was associated with a philosophical school that questioned accepted beliefs and emphasized doubt.

Philosophy

  • Skepticism as a philosophy argues that certainty in knowledge is unattainable, promoting a questioning mindset.
  • Famous philosophers like René Descartes used skeptical methods as a way to reach truth, famously stating, 'I think, therefore I am'.
  • Skepticism has led to important scientific advances by encouraging inquiry and evidence-based reasoning.

Science

  • The scientific method is fundamentally skeptical, as it requires evidence before accepting a hypothesis as true.
  • Skeptical inquiry is vital in fields like medicine, where treatments must be proven effective through rigorous testing.
  • Figures like Carl Sagan popularized scientific skepticism, encouraging a questioning attitude toward claims that lack evidence.

Pop Culture

  • In movies and literature, skeptical characters often serve as the voice of reason, challenging beliefs and uncovering truths.
  • The 'skeptical scientist' trope appears frequently in media, depicting researchers who question conventional wisdom.
  • Comedic skepticism is prevalent in stand-up and satire, where performers poke fun at absurdities and common beliefs.

Psychology

  • Recent studies suggest that a skeptical mindset can lead to better decision-making by encouraging critical thinking.
  • Skepticism can be protective, helping individuals avoid scams and misinformation in a world full of conflicting information.
  • However, excessive skepticism may lead to cynicism, impairing trust in others and hindering relationships.

Translations

Translations of the word "skeptically" in other languages:

🇵🇹 ceticamente

🇮🇳 संदेहपूर्ण ढंग से

🇩🇪 skeptisch

🇮🇩 dengan skeptis

🇺🇦 скептично

🇵🇱 sceptycznie

🇯🇵 懐疑的に

🇫🇷 sceptiquement

🇪🇸 escépticamente

🇹🇷 şüpheci bir şekilde

🇰🇷 회의적으로

🇸🇦 بشكل متشكك

🇨🇿 skepticky

🇸🇰 skepticky

🇨🇳 怀疑地

🇸🇮 skeptično

🇮🇸 með tortryggni

🇰🇿 күдікпен

🇬🇪 სკეპტიკურად

🇦🇿 şübhə ilə

🇲🇽 escépticamente

Word Frequency Rank

This word's position of #30,583 indicates it's among the more rare English words. While understanding it broadens your vocabulary, focus on more common words first.