What does “Doubting Thomas” mean?
"Doubting Thomas" means a person who is skeptical or doubtful.
What context can I use the in?
Example
He's such a Doubting Thomas, always questioning everything.
Example
She's a Doubting Thomas when it comes to trying new things.
Example
The Doubting Thomas in the group was hesitant to believe the news
Is “Doubting Thomas” an expression, an idiom, or a proverb?
“Doubting Thomas” is a proverb. A proverb is a short saying that teaches us something important or gives us advice. Unlike an idiom, it’s easy to understand even if it uses figurative language.
How would I use “Doubting Thomas” effectively in context?
You can use "Doubting Thomas" to refer to someone who is consistently skeptical or doubtful, often questioning everything. Here are three distinct situations where you can use this idiom effectively:
- 1Personal Traits
He's such a Doubting Thomas, always questioning everything.
- 2Trying New Things
She's a Doubting Thomas when it comes to trying new things.
- 3Belief or Trust
The Doubting Thomas in the group was hesitant to believe the news.
Similar phrases to “Doubting Thomas”:
A person who doubts or questions the validity or truth of something
Example
He's such a skeptic, always questioning everything.
A person who habitually expresses negative or pessimistic views
Example
She's such a naysayer, always finding fault in everything.
A person who believes that people are motivated purely by self-interest
Example
He's such a cynic, always doubting others' intentions.
Good things to know:
Where does the phrase “Doubting Thomas” come from?
The origin of the phrase "Doubting Thomas" can be traced back to the Bible. In the New Testament, there is a story about one of Jesus' disciples named Thomas. After Jesus' resurrection, Thomas expressed doubt and skepticism about the event until he saw Jesus with his own eyes. Since then, the phrase "Doubting Thomas" has been used to describe someone who is skeptical or doubtful.
Is “Doubting Thomas” common in everyday conversation?
Yes, "Doubting Thomas" is a commonly used idiom in everyday conversation. People often use it to describe someone who is skeptical or doubtful, emphasizing their tendency to question things and lack of trust.
What tone does “Doubting Thomas” have?
"Doubting Thomas" conveys a tone of criticism or mild mockery. It's often used to express frustration or annoyance towards someone who is constantly skeptical or doubtful.
Can “Doubting Thomas” be used in informal and formal settings?
Yes, "Doubting Thomas" can be used in both informal and formal settings. It's a versatile expression that describes a personal trait or behavior. You can use it in everyday conversations with friends, family, and colleagues, as well as in more formal situations such as presentations, meetings, or professional correspondence.
Can it be used by itself, or is it usually part of a sentence?
It's commonly used as part of a sentence to convey its full meaning. For example, 'He's always questioning everything, such a "Doubting Thomas".' However, in informal conversations, people might understand the phrase even if used alone, like saying 'Don't be such a "Doubting Thomas"!' to imply someone's skepticism.
