being skeptical of

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "being skeptical of" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when expressing doubt or questioning the validity of something or someone. Example: "She is being skeptical of the new policy changes proposed by the management."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

24 human-written examples

• Is there justification for being skeptical of Vick's motives?

The New York Times - Sports

BEING skeptical of fame achieved through text messaging, I'd happily throttle those downy warblers on "American Idol".

The New York Times

"Don't you regret doubting yourselves, being skeptical of what you felt?" The two women exchanged a glance.

The New York Times - Magazine

"I suppose they also had to do with my father, the Nazis, being skeptical of all systems, all manias.

The New York Times - Magazine

"I've seen more of people wanting to indulge their kids than being skeptical of spending their money".

The New York Times

These incendiary revelations have yet to be corroborated, and there's room for being skeptical of a man as corrupt as Aponte freely admits to have been.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

34 human-written examples

I'm skeptical of skeptics, too".

Vice

Be skeptical of the intelligence.

The New York Times

Petersen is skeptical of special biking shoes.

The New York Times - Books

Some were skeptical of the choice.

The New York Times

You are skeptical of that model, though.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "being skeptical of", ensure the context clearly indicates what you are doubting or questioning. For example, "being skeptical of government claims" specifies the object of skepticism.

Common error

While grammatically correct, "being skeptical of" can sound overly formal in casual conversation. Consider using more relaxed alternatives like "doubting" or "not buying into" to maintain a natural tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "being skeptical of" functions as a prepositional phrase that modifies a verb or noun, expressing a state of doubt or questioning towards a specific subject. Ludwig AI confirms its correct usage in various contexts.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

56%

Science

20%

Encyclopedias

8%

Less common in

Formal & Business

4%

Reference

4%

Wiki

4%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "being skeptical of" is a grammatically sound and frequently employed expression to denote doubt or questioning, as confirmed by Ludwig. It appears most often in News & Media and Science, maintaining a neutral tone suitable for diverse contexts. While effective, more informal alternatives exist for casual settings. Ludwig AI confirms that "being skeptical of" is applicable in a wide range of writing situations, emphasizing the importance of clarity when indicating what one is doubting.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

questioning the validity of

Focuses on doubting the truth or accuracy of something.

doubting the authenticity of

Emphasizes disbelief in genuineness or originality.

viewing with suspicion

Highlights a cautious and distrustful perspective.

harboring doubts about

Implies holding reservations or uncertainties.

having reservations about

Expresses a feeling of unease or doubt.

taking a critical view of

Suggests analyzing something with a discerning eye.

challenging the veracity of

Directly questions the truthfulness of something.

expressing reservations regarding

Formally conveys concerns or hesitations.

remaining unconvinced about

Indicates a lack of persuasion or belief.

not buying into

Informally rejects an idea or concept.

FAQs

How can I use "being skeptical of" in a sentence?

You can use "being skeptical of" to express doubt or questioning towards something. For example: "She is being skeptical of the new policy changes."

What are some alternatives to "being skeptical of"?

You can use alternatives like "doubting the authenticity of", "questioning the validity of", or "viewing with suspicion" depending on the specific context.

Is it better to say "being skeptical of" or "having skepticism toward"?

"Being skeptical of" is generally more direct and commonly used. "Having skepticism toward" is grammatically correct but sounds more formal and less natural.

What is the difference between "being cynical" and "being skeptical of"?

"Being cynical" implies a general distrust and pessimism, while "being skeptical of" refers to doubting a specific claim or idea. Cynicism is a broader attitude, while skepticism is a more focused reaction.