Definition

To feel doubt or suspicion about someone or something.

Example

She began to mistrust his intentions after he canceled their plans.

Tense Forms

Conversation

I really have to mistrust people who make promises they can't keep.

I know what you mean; it’s hard to take them seriously after a while.

Exactly, it just makes me feel uneasy around them.

Yeah, once that trust is broken, it’s tough to rebuild.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Definition

A feeling of doubt or lack of trust in someone or something.

Example

Her past experiences led to a deep mistrust of strangers.

Conversation

I feel like there's a lot of mistrust in our group lately.

Yeah, I've noticed that too; it makes things really awkward.

It’s strange because we used to get along so well.

Definition

To have a lack of trust or confidence in someone or something.

Example

She began to mistrust his intentions after he lied to her.

Tense Forms

Conversation

I can't help but mistrust people who are always too nice.

Yeah, it can feel a bit fake sometimes.

Exactly! I just feel like they want something from me.

Root Explanation

Mistrust → It is formed from "mis-" (meaning wrongly or badly) and "trust" (from Old Norse "traust", meaning confidence or reliance). The word "mistrust" means to have a wrong or bad confidence in someone or something, indicating a lack of trust.

Memory Tip

Think of 'mis-' meaning wrongly, and 'trust' as confidence. This helps you remember that mistrust means having a wrong feeling of confidence in someone.

Visually Confused Words