Difference between Dubious and Doubtful

What is the difference between Dubious and Doubtful?

Dubious as an adjective is arousing doubt; questionable; open to suspicion. while Doubtful as an adjective is subject to, or causing doubt

Dubious

Part of speech: adjective

Definition: Arousing doubt; questionable; open to suspicion. In disbelief; wavering, uncertain, or hesitating in opinion; inclined to doubt; undecided.

Example sentence: The War on Drugs employs millions - politicians, bureaucrats, policemen, and now the military - that probably couldn't find a place for their dubious talents in a free market, unless they were to sell pencils from a tin cup on street corners.

Doubtful

Part of speech: adjective

Definition: Subject to, or causing doubtExperiencing or showing doubtUndecided or of uncertain outcomeImprobable or unlikelySuspicious, or of dubious character

Example sentence: I was a little doubtful about the propriety of going to the Mammoth Cave without a gentleman escort, but if two ladies travel alone they must have the courage of men.

We hope you now know whether to use Dubious or Doubtful in your sentence.

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