disbelief

The feeling that something cannot be true, or an unwillingness to accept it as true.

• He stared at me in disbelief.
• She expressed disbelief when I told her the price.
• Their disbelief faded after they saw the evidence.

How to use it: in disbelief (He shook his head in disbelief.); disbelief at something (She expressed disbelief at the news.)

Similar words: incredulity, skepticism

Opposites: belief

Common phrases: in disbelief, express disbelief, disbelief at something

A feeling of great surprise at something remarkable.

• We watched in disbelief.
• She stared in disbelief at the beautiful mountain view.
• The crowd gasped in disbelief as he completed the incredible jump.

How to use it: in disbelief (We gazed in disbelief at the enormous waterfall.)

Similar words: amazement, astonishment, wonder

Common phrases: in disbelief, stare in disbelief, watch in disbelief

The state of no longer accepting something as true.

• His faith slowly gave way to disbelief.
• She described her journey from religious belief to disbelief.
• Their growing disbelief in the teaching divided the community.

How to use it: disbelief in something (Her disbelief in the doctrine developed over several years.)

Similar words: unbelief, nonbelief

Opposites: belief, faith

Common phrases: religious disbelief, disbelief in something, loss and disbelief