Suspicions
/səˈspɪʃənz/
Definitions
A feeling of doubt or distrust that something is the case or that someone is not telling the truth.
/səˈspɪʃənz/
A feeling or thought that something is the case, typically without evidence.
Her suspicions about the company's financial practices proved to be accurate.
💡 Simply: It's like when you have a gut feeling that something isn't quite right, or that someone might be hiding something. For example, if your friend starts acting really secretive, you might have suspicions about what they're up to.
👶 For kids: When you think something is a little fishy or maybe not true, like when you think your friend ate your cookie.
More Examples
The detective's suspicions were aroused by the inconsistencies in the witness's story.
The authorities launched an investigation based on widespread suspicions of corruption.
How It's Used
"He had strong suspicions about the deal."
"The police investigated the crime based on the suspicions of witnesses."
"Paranoia is often characterized by excessive suspicions."
Synonyms
Idioms & expressions
beyond suspicion
Free from any cause for doubt; not open to suspicion.
"Her integrity is beyond suspicion; she is known for her honesty."
under suspicion
Subject to suspicion; believed to be possibly guilty.
"The suspect is currently under suspicion by the police."
From Middle English *suspicioun*, from Old French *suspicion* (13th c.), from Latin *suspiciō* (“mistrust, suspicion”), from *suspicere* (“to look up, to look at secretly, to suspect”), from *sub-* (“under, secretly”) + *specere* (“to look”).
The word 'suspicions' has been used in literature and legal documents to describe distrust and apprehension since at least the 13th century, maintaining a consistent core meaning over time.
Memory tip
Think of someone looking at you sideways, unsure of your intentions.