Suspicion: meaning, definitions and examples

Etymology

• The word comes from the Latin 'suspicio', which means 'to look up at', combining 'sus-' (up) and 'specere' (to look).
• It entered the English language in the late 14th century, originally referring more to mistrust than the modern connotation.
• The evolution of the word closely follows societal shifts in trust and interpersonal relationships.

Psychology

• Studies show that individuals with high levels of anxiety are often more prone to feelings of suspicion.
• Suspicion can be a protective mechanism, where the brain detects potential threats based on past experiences.
• Too much suspicion can lead to paranoia, impacting social relationships and mental well-being.

Pop Culture

• In literature, characters like Sherlock Holmes exemplify suspicion as a tool for deduction and understanding.
• Movies often portray suspicion as a key element in suspense thrillers—creating tension and uncertainty.
• Popular songs sometimes explore themes of suspicion in relationships, highlighting emotional struggles.

Sociology

• Suspicion exists in many societal contexts, like during political scandals or economic crises, where trust erodes.
• Cultural norms influence whether suspicion is deemed healthy skepticism or damaging distrust.
• Research indicates that societies with higher levels of social trust tend to report lower levels of suspicion among individuals.

Historical Context

• Historically, suspicion has played a significant role in events like witch hunts and political purges, where mistrust led to social unrest.
• In wartime, suspicion often arises between nations, influencing diplomacy and international relations.
• Legal systems sometimes rely on the concept of suspicion to justify investigations or detain individuals under certain circumstances.

With rank #4,570, this word represents useful upper-intermediate vocabulary. Understanding and using it will help you express more complex ideas effectively.

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