The Opposite(Antonym) of “credulous”
The antonyms of credulous are skeptical, distrustful, and cynical. These words convey a lack of trust or belief in something or someone.
Explore all Antonyms of “credulous”
Definitions and Examples of skeptical, distrustful, cynical
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
Not easily convinced; having doubts or reservations about something.
Example
She was skeptical of the new product's claims and decided to do some research before buying it.
Feeling or showing a lack of trust or confidence in someone or something.
Example
After being lied to several times, he became distrustful of his friend's promises.
Distrustful of human sincerity or integrity; believing that people are motivated purely by self-interest.
Example
He had a cynical view of politics and believed that politicians only cared about their own interests.
Key Differences: skeptical vs distrustful vs cynical
- 1Skeptical implies having doubts or reservations about something, while distrustful implies a lack of trust or confidence in someone or something.
- 2Cynical goes beyond skepticism and distrust and implies a belief that people are motivated purely by self-interest.
Effective Usage of skeptical, distrustful, cynical
- 1Express Doubt: Use skeptical to express doubts or reservations about something.
- 2Show Mistrust: Use distrustful to show a lack of trust or confidence in someone or something.
- 3Express Disbelief: Use cynical to express disbelief or a belief that people are motivated purely by self-interest.
Remember this!
The antonyms of credulous are skeptical, distrustful, and cynical. Use skeptical to express doubts or reservations, distrustful to show a lack of trust or confidence, and cynical to express disbelief or a belief that people are motivated purely by self-interest.
