skeptische

Skeptische is the Dutch adjective meaning skeptical. It describes doubt or a critical attitude toward claims, beliefs, or situations. The term is used for people, statements, or positions that question certainty or require evidence, and it can modify a noun in attributive use, for example in a phrase like a skeptisch? No, a skeptieke? We should avoid uncertain forms. Instead, say: "een skeptische houding" to illustrate its common usage, and "hij is skeptisch" for a predicative form.

Etymology and related terms: Skeptische derives from the idea of skepticism, which traces back to the Greek skepsis, meaning examination or inquiry. The word entered Dutch through Latin and later evolved into the modern form skeptical in everyday language and scientific discourse. The related noun is skepsis, meaning doubt or examination; in Dutch, this sense is closely tied to philosophical and critical contexts.

Usage and grammar: In Dutch, skeptisch is the base form of the adjective, while skeptisch? The attributive form before a noun is skeptische, as in een skeptische houding or sceptische opvattingen, reflecting common spelling conventions. In predicative position, the adjective appears as skeptisch: Hij is skeptisch over de bewering. The term encompasses a range of nuance from mild doubt to active questioning.

Philosophical and contemporary context: Skepticism refers to a school of thought that questions knowledge, certainty, and justification. In modern usage, scientific skepticism emphasizes evidence-based evaluation of extraordinary claims and the careful weighing of new information.

See also: Skepsis, skepticism in philosophy, scientific skepticism.