What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
fishy
Example
The sushi tasted a bit fishy, so I didn't eat it. [fishy: adjective]
Example
The whole story sounds fishy to me. [fishy: adjective]
Example
I have a fishy feeling about this deal. [fishy: adjective]
suspicious
Example
The police found some suspicious items in his car. [suspicious: adjective]
Example
I'm suspicious of his motives for offering to help. [suspicious: adjective]
Example
There's something suspicious about the way she's acting. [suspicious: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Suspicious is more commonly used than fishy in everyday language, especially in formal settings.
Whatโs the difference in the tone of formality between fishy and suspicious?
Suspicious is a more formal word than fishy and can be used in various formality levels, while fishy is typically associated with a more casual and informal tone.
