Basic Details
Word: Dubious
Part of Speech: Adjective
Meaning: Doubtful or uncertain; not sure if something is true or good.
Synonyms: Doubtful, suspicious, uncertain
Antonyms: Certain, confident, sure
Idioms and Phrases
- Doubtful Thomas: Referring to someone who tends to doubt or question everything. Example: "My friend is a bit of a Doubtful Thomas; he always asks for proof before believing anything."
- On shaky ground: To be in a situation that is uncertain or risky. Example: "The company's finances are on shaky ground, so many investors are feeling dubious about its future."
Usage Examples
Example 1: She looked dubious when she heard the unlikely story about Bigfoot.
Example 2: The teacher had a dubious expression when the student claimed his dog ate his homework.
Example 3: Some people were dubious about the effectiveness of the new medicine until they saw the results.
Fun Fact
The word "dubious" comes from the Latin word "dubiosus," which means "doubtful." It has been used in the English language since the late 16th century, often to express skepticism towards a statement or idea.
Famous Quote
"The only thing Im dubious about is being too serious." John OFarrell
Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs)
1. What does "dubious" mean?
a) Very certain
b) Doubtful or uncertain
c) Clearly defined
d) Extremely happy
Answer: b) Doubtful or uncertain
2. Which of these is a synonym of "dubious"?
a) Confident
b) Suspect
c) Enthusiastic
d) Cheerful
Answer: b) Suspect
3. Which sentence uses "dubious" correctly?
a) He felt dubious about eating the seafood dish in case it was spoiled.
b) She was dubious that her team would win the match and cheered loudly.
c) The dubious runner finished the marathon in record time.
d) The dubious plant was very vibrant in colours.
Answer: a) He felt dubious about eating the seafood dish in case it was spoiled.
4. Which idiom means the same as "dubious"?
a) On shaky ground
b) Keep your chin up
c) Run around in circles
d) Play it by ear
Answer: a) On shaky ground
5. What is the opposite of "dubious"?
a) Certain
b) Unclear
c) Shifty
d) Fickle
Answer: a) Certain
