Definition

Deserving to be doubted or questioned because it seems wrong or suspicious.

Example

The suspect behavior of the man made everyone feel uneasy.

Comparatives & Superlatives

Conversation

Did you hear about that new policy at work?

Yeah, it sounds a bit suspect to me.

I agree! It seems like there are hidden motives behind it.

Exactly, I just don't trust it at all.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Definition

To have a feeling that something is wrong or that someone has done something bad.

Example

I suspect that he is not telling the truth.

Tense Forms

Conversation

I really suspect that he’s hiding something from us.

You think so? I noticed he’s been acting a bit strange lately.

Yeah, I can’t shake the feeling that he’s not being honest.

Definition

A person who is believed to have done something wrong or illegal, especially a crime.

Example

The police arrested the suspect after gathering enough evidence.

Conversation

Did you hear about the robbery last night?

Yeah, they say they have a suspect in custody already.

I wonder what led them to that person.

Definition

To believe that something is true or likely, often without having proof; to think that someone may be guilty of a crime.

Example

The detective suspects that the suspect is hiding important information.

Tense Forms

Conversation

Did you hear about the new guy at work?

Yeah, I’ve seen him around. Why?

I just suspect he might not be as friendly as he seems.

Root Explanation

Suspect is formed from "sus-" (meaning from below or under) and "spectare" (meaning to look or watch). The word originally referred to looking at something with suspicion or doubt, as if peering from below the surface.

Memory Tip

Think of looking 'from below' ('sus-') at something with doubt or suspicion — that's why suspect means to doubt or question.

Visually Confused Words