What is the opposite of “gullible”?

What is the antonym of “gullible”?

The antonym of gullible is skeptical, distrustful, and cynical. These antonyms describe a lack of trust or belief in something or someone.

Brief Definitions of the Antonym(s)

Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!

skeptical

Not easily convinced; having doubts or reservations about something.

Example

She was skeptical about the new product's claims and decided to do some research before buying it.

distrustful

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.

cynical

Distrustful of human nature and motives; believing that people are motivated by self-interest.

Example

He had a cynical view of politics and believed that politicians only cared about their own interests.

How are these antonyms different from each other?

• 1. Skeptical implies having doubts or reservations about something, while gullible implies being easily fooled or deceived.
• 2. Distrustful implies a lack of trust or confidence in someone or something, while gullible implies a willingness to believe anything.
• 3. Cynical implies a distrustful view of human nature and motives, while gullible implies a naive or innocent view of the world.

Good things to know

• 1. Critical Thinking: Use skeptical to question claims and ideas.
• 2. Healthy Relationships: Avoid being distrustful but also avoid being too gullible in relationships.
• 3. Realistic View: Use cynical to describe a realistic view of the world.

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Remember this!

The antonyms have distinct nuances: Skeptical implies doubt, distrustful implies a lack of trust, and cynical implies a distrustful view of human nature. Use these words to practice critical thinking, maintain healthy relationships, and describe a realistic view of the world.