dubious
What does "dubious" mean?
The word "dubious" describes a state of hesitation or uncertainty, specifically when something feels morally questionable or unlikely to be true. The mental image is of someone squinting at a situation, feeling a sense of unease or distrust because the facts just don't seem to add up. It is often used to characterize things that are suspicious, unreliable, or of questionable quality. While it can mean "feeling doubt," it more frequently refers to the object of that doubt itself—such as a "dubious excuse" or a "dubious business practice"—suggesting that the person should be wary.
"dubious" in conversation
Questioning a claim
He said he found a suitcase full of cash on the bus.
He said he found a suitcase full of cash on the bus.
That sounds a bit dubious, don't you think?
That sounds a bit dubious, don't you think?
Used here to express skepticism about a tall tale.
Evaluating a website
Should I enter my credit card info here?
Should I enter my credit card info here?
I wouldn't. The site design looks pretty dubious.
I wouldn't. The site design looks pretty dubious.
Used to imply that the website's legitimacy is questionable.
"dubious" in a sentence
He gave a dubious reason for being late.
He gave a dubious reason for being late.
The company has a dubious reputation for avoiding taxes.
The company has a dubious reputation for avoiding taxes.
It is a dubious honor to be the only person who has to work on the holiday.
It is a dubious honor to be the only person who has to work on the holiday.
