What does skeptical mean?
Skeptical means having doubt or disbelief, especially about a claim, explanation, or person. It is commonly used with the prepositions about and of, as in “skeptical of the promise” or “skeptical about the evidence.” The word suggests a questioning attitude and a willingness to examine whether something is true or reasonable. It can be mild, as when someone is merely cautious, or strong, as when someone openly distrusts an account. Skepticism is often viewed as a useful intellectual habit because it encourages people to seek evidence and consider alternative explanations. In American English, “skeptical” is standard, while “sceptical” is the traditional British spelling.
adjectiveHaving doubt or disbelief about something, especially a claim, idea, or person. Expressing a questioning or unconvinced attitude toward information presented as true.
- Having doubt or disbelief; questioning the truth, validity, or likelihood of a claim, statement, or person.
"She remained skeptical of the claims made by the advertisement."
"The committee was skeptical of the proposal and requested more evidence."
"Although she listened politely, she remained skeptical about the investment."
Being skeptical is not automatically being negative: it is the habit of asking what evidence supports a claim before accepting it.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does skeptical come from?
The word ultimately comes from Greek skeptikos, meaning “one who examines” or “one who suspends judgment,” associated with the philosophical skeptics. English borrowed the related noun “skeptic” in the 17th century, and the adjective “skeptical” developed from that noun. The modern form has continued the sense of doubting or carefully questioning a claim.
Related word forms
How skeptical is actually used
Skeptical is common in American English; sceptical is the usual British spelling. The word can describe a person's attitude or a response to information, and it often implies careful questioning rather than complete rejection.
Easily confused with skeptical
Sceptical is the traditional British spelling, while skeptical is the standard spelling in American English; both have the same meaning.