dubious - Master This Word
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dubious Word Meanings
- not certain or definite
- having doubts
- suspect or questionable
dubious Example Sentences
Example sentences are the start of understanding. Don't rush to memorize. First feel how the word works in a sentence.
dubious Phonetic & Pronunciation
UK
/ˈdjuːbiəs/
US
/ˈduːbiəs/
dubious Word Etymology
From Latin 'dubius' (doubtful) → Old French 'dubieus' → English 'dubious'. Imagine a person with a raised eyebrow, unsure and questioning the truth of a situation.
Note 1: These definitions and etymologies are not standard dictionary definitions, but extended explanations provided to help with memorization and understanding of the actual application of words. Through this background information, we strive to make words more vivid and easier to understand, and help you remember their meanings in real life.
Note 2: LexiTalk designs the learning flow around the linguistics principle of “Comprehensible Input.” When learners encounter material that is slightly above their level but still understandable from context, the brain naturally absorbs the language. That’s why we keep every word inside authentic contexts, using examples and associations to help you understand it and use it flexibly.
Read the FAQ explanation of Comprehensible InputReal Context
Dubious describes something that is not clearly true or trustworthy, and it often signals doubt about the evidence, the source, or the outcome. In everyday English you might say a claim is dubious when you’re not convinced by the facts, or when the reasoning seems weak or inconsistent. It can also describe a person’s motives or a situation that raises suspicions. While dubious and suspicious can overlap, dubious emphasizes uncertainty in the information itself rather than deliberate wrongdoing. The etymology traces back to Latin dubius, through Old French dubieus, evolving into the present adjective. A raised eyebrow is a good mental image for someone feeling dubious about what they’re hearing.
Usage Reminders
- Use with care: dubious is stronger than 'unclear' but weaker than 'suspicious'.
- Prefer with a noun phrase: 'a dubious claim', 'a dubious source'.
- Pair with a visual cue like a raised eyebrow to show doubt.
- In formal writing, reserve dubious for genuine uncertainty rather than deceit.
- Compare with 'suspicious' to choose the right shade of doubt.
Common Misconceptions
- Dubious means the same as suspicious.
- If something is dubious, it must be false.
- Dubious only refers to people, not to information.
- A dubious claim is always an intentional lie.
- You should use dubious in casual everyday talk for any doubt.
Thinking Differences
English learners often mix up dubious with suspicious; remember dubious focuses on the evidence itself, not on motives.
Learning Tips
- Compare with synonyms in context
- Practice with fixed phrases like 'a dubious claim' and 'a dubious source'
- Use in formal writing only when evidence is weak
- Watch for tone: not accusing a person
- Read widely to see nuance in reporting
5-Step Learning Method - Learn English in English
Step 2: Usage
In which sentence is 'dubious' used correctly?
A.The teacher found his excuse dubious and questioned its validity.
B.She had a dubious plan that everyone agreed with.
C.His certainty about the outcome made him feel dubious.
D.The team felt dubious after winning the championship.
Step 3: Similar Words
Which word is a synonym of 'dubious'?
A.Ambiguous
B.Trustworthy
C.Confident
D.Clear
Step 4: Opposite Words
Which word is an antonym of 'dubious'?
A.Hesitant
B.Sure
C.Questionable
D.Uncertain
Step 5: Mastery
In a legal case, why might someone have a dubious alibi?
A.To strengthen their case
B.To deceive the jury
C.To confuse the witnesses
D.To prove their innocence
Related Listening
🔥 Advanced
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