# suspiciously

/səˈspɪʃəsɫi/ (US) · /səspˈɪʃəsli/ (UK) · CEFR B2 · Adverb

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/suspiciously
Updated: 2026-05-09

## Definition

in a way that makes you feel like something is wrong or that someone is lying. You use this when someone's behavior or a situation seems strange and untrustworthy.

For teachers: in a manner that suggests guilt, dishonesty, or something wrong; alternatively, used to describe a state that arouses doubt or mistrust in others.

## Examples

- The man was looking suspiciously at the locked door.
- The car was parked suspiciously close to the bank entrance with the engine still running.
- Although the witness claimed to be at home during the incident, her suspiciously detailed account of the weather suggested she had rehearsed her alibi.

## Usage notes

- Typically follows the verb it modifies, though it can appear in the sentence-initial position to set a tone of doubt for the entire clause.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.