Incredulous
mediumNeutral tonein-KREJ-uh-lus
adjective
Definition
Unwilling or unable to believe something
Memory hook
IN-CREDUL-ous: NOT CREDULOUS (believing) - jaw-dropping disbelief at something unbelievable.
Word roots
Learning roots unlocks whole word families. Study common GRE root words.
Examples
“He gave her an incredulous look when she told him the news.”
“The jury was incredulous at the defendant's implausible alibi.”
Test yourself
Fill in the blank with the right word:
“He gave her an ______ look when she told him the news.”
Show answer
incredulous
Categories
GRE Tip
Incredulous is a medium-difficulty GRE word. On the GRE, you might see it paired with synonyms like "disbelieving" or "skeptical" in Sentence Equivalence questions. Look for contrast clues (however, despite, although) that signal the opposite meaning. Words like "credulous".
Related GRE Words
skeptical
Not easily convinced; having doubts or reservations
cynical
Believing that people are motivated purely by self-interest; distrustful of human sincerity
abate
To reduce in amount, degree, or intensity
abiding
Lasting for a long time; enduring and unchanging
abstract
Existing in thought or as an idea but not having a physical or concrete existence
acclaim
Enthusiastic public praise or approval
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