What does suspiciously mean?
Suspiciously is an adverb meaning in a way that causes suspicion or doubt, or that seems designed to do so. It is often used with actions and appearances: a person may move suspiciously, smile suspiciously, or fall suspiciously silent. It can also describe a striking similarity, coincidence, or lack of evidence, as in a suspiciously exact match. The word frequently implies that something may be hidden, deceptive, or underhanded, but it does not necessarily prove that a problem exists; it signals an invitation to question what is happening. In other contexts, suspiciously can mean deliberately in a way intended to attract attention, curiosity, or suspicion. The related adjective suspicious describes a person who doubts something or circumstances that cause distrust. Overall, suspiciously conveys a cautious, alert, and sometimes probing attitude toward the world.
adverbIn a way that suggests something is wrong, dishonest, or worthy of suspicion. It can also mean in a way that is intended to cause doubt or curiosity.
- In a way that suggests wrongdoing, deception, danger, or some other problem.
- In a way intended to provoke curiosity, doubt, or speculation.
"He looked suspiciously at the unfamiliar package before opening it."
"The witness behaved suspiciously during the interview."
"The two accounts were suspiciously similar."
Something suspiciously quiet is often more attention-grabbing than something loudly suspicious.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Etymology of suspiciously
Suspiciously is an adverb derived from the adjective suspicious, which in turn comes from suspicion and ultimately from Latin suspicere, meaning to suspect or look up at with distrust. The Latin verb is associated with sus-, meaning below or under, and specere, meaning to look. The related English words suspect and suspicion share this etymological foundation.
Related word forms
How suspiciously is actually used
The adverb is commonly used to describe behaviour, appearances, circumstances, or coincidences. It can convey suspicion without asserting that something is definitely wrong.