Definition

The condition of being suspicious or having doubts about someone or something.

Example

Her mistrustfulness made it hard for her to form new friendships.

Conversation

I sometimes feel that mistrustfulness can ruin friendships.

I get that; it makes it hard to connect with others.

Yeah, it's like you're always waiting for the other shoe to drop.

Exactly! Trust is so important for any relationship.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Mistrustfulness → It is formed from "mis-" (meaning wrongly or badly), "trust" (from Old French *troster*, meaning to rely on or have confidence in), and "-fulness" (meaning the state of being full of). The word "mistrustfulness" means the state of being full of wrong or bad trust, or a lack of confidence in others.

Memory Tip

Think of 'mis-' meaning wrongly, and 'trust' as relying on someone. This helps you remember that 'mistrustfulness' refers to the state of having a wrong or bad sense of trust.

Visually Confused Words