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Definitions

dubious

[doo-bee-uhs, dyoo-] / ˈdu bi əs, ˈdyu- /
ADJECTIVE
doubtful
Synonyms
STRONGEST
arguable debatable equivocal fishy hesitant improbable problematic questionable reluctant shady skeptical suspicious uncertain unclear unconvinced unreliable unsure
WEAK
chancy diffident disputable dubitable far-fetched fly-by-night iffy indecisive moot mootable open perplexed suspect touch and go trustless unassured undecided undependable unlikely untrustworthy untrusty wavering
Antonyms
STRONGEST
aboveboard believable certain clear definite determined honest indubious likely probable secure sure trustworthy undoubted unquestionable
WEAK
doubtless positive reliable trusty unambiguous undoubtful unobscure
ADJECTIVE
vague, unclear
Synonyms
STRONGEST
ambiguous debatable doubtful equivocal problematic
WEAK
disinclined indefinite indeterminate mistrustful obscure open problematical undecided unsettled
Antonyms
STRONGEST
certain clear definite settled sure unquestionable
WEAK
doubtless positive reliable trustworthy trusty unambiguous undoubtful unobscure

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

Notice the base began with a dubious evening star pattern completed on March 31.

From Barron's • Apr. 8, 2026

Those practices saw the original premise of social media—an extension of our proverbial kitchen table—replaced with ethically questionable and legally dubious methodologies.

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 1, 2026

That amount, which created nothing but an advertisement for a product of dubious value to society, is the price of two Walt Disney Concert Halls and probably all of Gehry’s projects put together.

From Los Angeles Times • Mar. 20, 2026

A lot of it has involved anonymous tips and other dubious sources claiming to have secret intel.

From Slate • Feb. 27, 2026

There’s no nod for this part, just a knit brow and a dubious frown.

From "The Running Dream" by Wendelin Van Draanen