Dubious

Adjective

Definition: Hesitating or doubting; feeling uncertain about or skeptical towards something.

Definition: Not to be relied upon; suspect or unreliable.

Synonyms: Doubtful, Uncertain, Unsure, Questionable, Skeptical

Antonyms: Certain, Convinced, Confident, Sure, Trustworthy

Examples:

She gave him a dubious look, unsure if she could trust his words.
The evidence presented was rather dubious and lacked credibility.

Mnemonics:

The word "dubious" rhymes with "suspicious," which can help remember its meaning.

Etymology:

Origin:

Late 16th century from Latin 'dubiosus', from 'dubium' meaning "doubt".

Historical Usage:

The word has been used consistently throughout history with its current meaning.

Related Idioms:

Idiom:

"In dubious battle"

Explanation:

Refers to a difficult or uncertain situation, often involving a conflict.

Misconceptions:

Misconception:

Using "dubious" to mean "dubiousness" (noun form)

Explanation:

While "dubious" is an adjective, some people mistakenly use it as a noun. The correct usage would be "I doubt the dubiousness of his claims," rather than "I doubt the dubious of his claims."