Definition of Suspect
Quick Meaning of Suspect
To think or believe something is true when you are not sure about it.
Detailed Definition of Suspect
To believe or think that something is true or that someone has done something wrong, based on incomplete evidence.
How to Pronounce Suspect
Stress pattern: oO (2-syllable word).
Tip: Verb stress is on second syllable: sus-PEKT. Noun 'suspect' (person) stresses first: SUS-pect.
Watch out: Saying SUS-pect with first-syllable stress is noun pronunciation; verb needs sus-PEKT.
Origin and Etymology of Suspect
From Latin suspectus meaning 'mistrusted' or 'looked up at with suspicion'.
How to Use Suspect in a Sentence
Each example shows “suspect” with a CEFR level so learners can pick examples that match their fluency.
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“I suspect the package was lost in the mail.”
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“The detective suspected the suspect of stealing the jewels.”
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“Scientists suspect that climate change is affecting migration patterns.”
Synonyms and Antonyms of Suspect
Common Synonyms for Suspect
Smart Synonyms for Suspect — When to Use Each
- believe
- when you have some supporting evidence
- think
- for casual suspicion without strong evidence
- guess
- when based on intuition or guessing
Antonyms of Suspect
Common Collocations with Suspect
These phrases pair with “suspect” in everyday English:
- suspect foul play
- suspect trouble ahead
- I suspect so
- suspect someone of
- strongly suspect
Common Mistakes When Using Suspect
Even fluent speakers slip up with “suspect”. Here’s how to avoid the most common errors:
- ✗ Wrong: He suspected to be guilty.
- ✓ Correct: He was suspected of being guilty. (or I suspect he is guilty)
- Why: Suspect doesn't use infinitive 'to be'. Use 'of + gerund' or 'that-clause' instead.
- ✗ Wrong: I'm suspecting he is late.
- ✓ Correct: I suspect he is late.
- Why: Suspect is typically simple present, not progressive. Say 'I suspect' not 'I'm suspecting'.
Words Confused With Suspect
- Suspect vs Suspicious: Suspicious is adjective (feeling suspicion); suspect is verb (to think).
Other Forms of Suspect
- Noun: suspect
- Verb: suspect
- Adjective: suspicious
Frequently Asked Questions About Suspect
What is the meaning of "Suspect"?
To think or believe something is true when you are not sure about it.
How do you pronounce "Suspect"?
The IPA is /səˈspɛkt/. Verb stress is on second syllable: sus-PEKT. Noun 'suspect' (person) stresses first: SUS-pect.
What part of speech is "Suspect"?
"Suspect" is a verb at B1 level (Common European Framework).
What are synonyms for "Suspect"?
Common synonyms include believe, think, guess.
How do you use "Suspect" in a sentence?
For example: "I suspect the package was lost in the mail."