incredulous
What does "incredulous" mean?
Incredulous describes a state of being completely unwilling or unable to believe something. Visualize someone widening their eyes, shaking their head, or wearing a look of sheer disbelief when hearing a shocking claim or seeing an impossible event. While it shares roots with "skeptical," incredulous suggests a stronger, more visceral reaction to something that defies your sense of reality. It is often used to describe facial expressions or tones of voice, implying that the person is struggling to process the truth of the situation.
"incredulous" in conversation
Reacting to a wild story
He actually quit his job to become a professional mime?
He actually quit his job to become a professional mime?
I know! I was absolutely incredulous when he told me.
I know! I was absolutely incredulous when he told me.
Used to emphasize genuine shock at a life choice.
Questioning a suspicious excuse
You're saying the dog ate your laptop?
You're saying the dog ate your laptop?
I swear, it’s the truth!
I swear, it’s the truth!
I’m staring at you with an incredulous look for a reason.
I’m staring at you with an incredulous look for a reason.
Highlights the mismatch between a claim and the listener's belief.
"incredulous" in a sentence
She gave me an incredulous look.
She gave me an incredulous look.
The witness remained incredulous despite the mountain of evidence presented in court.
The witness remained incredulous despite the mountain of evidence presented in court.
He listened to the incredulous tales of the traveler with a mixture of amusement and deep suspicion.
He listened to the incredulous tales of the traveler with a mixture of amusement and deep suspicion.
