What does sceptical mean?
Sceptical means doubtful about a claim, belief, or proposal and unwilling to accept it without good evidence. It is commonly used in the expression “sceptical of,” as in “sceptical of the evidence,” and can also describe a general intellectual approach, such as a sceptical examination of an argument. The word does not simply mean hostile or negative; its central implication is that a claim has not yet met an adequate standard of proof. In reported speech, science, politics, law, and everyday conversation, scepticism can signal careful judgment and openness to counter-evidence. Its British spelling is generally “sceptical,” although “skeptical” is the standard form in American English.
adjectiveHaving doubt or disbelief about something; not readily convinced that it is true, genuine, or worthwhile. It may also describe an approach characterized by careful questioning and the willingness to consider opposing evidence.
- Doubtful or unwilling to accept a claim without evidence.
- Characterized by critical questioning and intellectual caution.
"Several researchers remained sceptical of the study's unusually strong conclusions."
"The auditor was sceptical of the explanation offered by the company."
"Her sceptical approach led her to question every assumption behind the proposal."
A sceptic does more than doubt: they insist that doubt should be examined, not avoided.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does sceptical come from?
The word derives from the Greek skeptikos, meaning “one who examines” or “one who doubts,” from skeptesthai, “to examine or consider.” It entered English through skepticism and related forms associated with philosophical doubt. The modern spelling reflects the influence of the related noun skepticism, while the sense of critical or questioning attitude developed from the broader meaning of inquiry and doubt.
Related word forms
How sceptical is actually used
Sceptical is standard in British English; skeptical is standard in American English. The word can suggest either healthy, methodical doubt or a more persistent unwillingness to accept a claim, depending on context.
Easily confused with sceptical
Sceptical is the usual British spelling, while skeptical is the usual American spelling; both have the same meaning.