Part of Speech

adjective

Pronunciation

/dɪsˈtrʌst.fəl/

Definitions

• adjective: Showing a lack of trust or confidence in someone or something.
• adjective: Suspicious or doubtful in nature.

Usage Examples

• His distrustful attitude towards the new manager made it hard for him to cooperate.
• She became distrustful of anyone who spoke too highly of the project.

Etymology

The word 'distrustful' is formed from the prefix 'dis-' meaning "opposite of" or "lack of," combined with 'trust,' which comes from the Old French word 'troster' (to trust), from Latin 'trustare.' The suffix '-ful' means "full of" or "characterized by." The term originated in the late 16th century, evolving from the noun 'distrust.'

Synonyms

• suspicious
• doubtful
• skeptical
• cynical
• mistrustful

Antonyms

• trusting
• confident
• faithful
• reliable
• believing

Translations

Regional Pronunciation Variations

• In American English, 'distrustful' may be pronounced with more emphasis on the first syllable: /dɪsˈtrʌst-fəl/.
• In British English, the pronunciation is often slightly softer on the 'f' sound: /dɪsˈtrʌstfəl/.

Historical Usage

The term 'distrustful' appeared in English literature during the late 16th century. Initially, it was used to describe individuals or groups who were wary of outsiders or unknown influences, particularly in political or religious contexts. Over time, it has come to describe any person exhibiting suspicion or reluctance to trust others, especially in personal or professional relationships.

Cultural Nuances

Being distrustful can sometimes be seen as a protective measure, particularly in cultures with high levels of social uncertainty. However, in more trusting societies, distrustful behavior may be viewed negatively, signaling a lack of openness or fear. The interpretation of being 'distrustful' can vary significantly across cultures, with some viewing it as a healthy skepticism and others as a barrier to cooperation.

More Information

'Distrustful' is a key adjective in understanding human interactions, especially in social psychology. It signifies a lack of faith or confidence, often resulting in protective behavior, caution, or avoidance. In the modern world, particularly in the context of digital communication and online interactions, distrustful attitudes have become more common, with individuals skeptical of digital information, privacy concerns, and institutional trustworthiness. Understanding the nuances of distrust and its impact on both personal relationships and society is important in addressing conflicts and promoting transparency.