What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
suspicious
Example
I'm suspicious of his motives for offering to help. [suspicious: adjective]
Example
The police are investigating the suspicious activity in the area. [suspicious: adjective]
doubtful
Example
I'm doubtful that we'll be able to finish the project on time. [doubtful: adjective]
Example
She was doubtful about the accuracy of the information. [doubtful: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Doubtful is more commonly used than suspicious in everyday language. Doubtful is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while suspicious is less common and often used in specific situations involving potential harm or wrongdoing.
Whatโs the difference in the tone of formality between suspicious and doubtful?
Both suspicious and doubtful can be used in formal and informal contexts, but suspicious may be perceived as more formal due to its association with legal or investigative language.
