疑う

• Reading: うたがう
• Romaji: utagau
• Kanji breakdown: 疑 (gi/utaga) — doubt, suspicion
• Pronunciation: /ɯ.ta.ɡa.ɯ/

Meaning

To doubt; to suspect; to be sceptical of. Expresses uncertainty or distrust about the truth of something.

A Group 1 (godan) verb. Used for doubting people, facts, or situations. Common expressions include 目を疑う (to doubt one's eyes, i.e. be astonished) and 耳を疑う (to doubt one's ears). Can carry negative connotations when directed at people.

Examples

1. その話が本当かどうか疑っている。 I'm doubting whether that story is true or not.
2. 警察はその男を犯人だと疑った。 The police suspected that man was the culprit.
3. 人を簡単に疑うべきではない。 You shouldn't be so quick to doubt people.

Usage Guide

Context: daily life, crime, investigation

Tone: serious

Origin & History

From classical Japanese 疑ふ (utagafu). The kanji 疑 originally depicted a person standing at a crossroads, unsure which way to go — symbolising hesitation and doubt.

Cultural Context

Era: Classical

Generation: All ages

Social background: Universal