adjective
dubious
DOO-bee-us/ˈduːbiəs/
Involving uncertainty or grounds for doubt.
The watch's claim to be gold looks dubious where its plating flakes away.
Etymology
Latin dubium, “doubt,” goes back to duo, “two,” with the image of being “of two minds.” Something dubious leaves you wavering over whether it is true or trustworthy.
In context
She was on very dubious social media accounts. Um you know, it wouldn't have taken rocket science to look at that and think, "She's not really somebody that we want in the prison service."
More examples
- The report relies on statistics from a dubious source.
- Their chances of winning look dubious after three straight losses.
- He has the dubious honor of receiving the most complaints.
Forms
dubious
dubiously adverb — In a way that expresses doubt.
dubiousness noun — The quality of being uncertain or questionable.
Similar words
- doubtful
- Often stresses uncertainty rather than suspicion of dishonesty.
- questionable
- Emphasizes reasons to challenge something's quality, honesty, or acceptability.
- suspicious
- More strongly suggests that something dishonest or wrong is happening.