Doubting Thomas

Meaning

"Doubting Thomas" is an idiom that refers to someone who refuses to believe something until they have seen it for themselves, even if others have already witnessed or experienced it. It implies skepticism and a reluctance to accept information on faith or without concrete evidence.

Usage

• When my friend told me about the incredible performance of the new band, I was initially hesitant to believe her until I saw them live for myself.
• My boss always asks me to double-check all of my work before submitting it, even though I know she trusts my abilities.
• After hearing so many negative reviews about the new restaurant, I decided to give it a try and was pleasantly surprised by how delicious everything tasted.
• As a scientist, I always require empirical evidence before accepting any new theory or hypothesis.
• When my girlfriend told me that she saw her favorite actor at the grocery store earlier today, I didn't believe her until I checked his social media to confirm it.

Roots and History

The idiom "Doubting Thomas" originated from the Bible story of Thomas, one of the disciples of Jesus who initially refused to believe that Jesus had risen from the dead after his crucifixion. He demanded physical proof before he would accept the truth, which led him to be known as "Doubting Thomas". The idiom has been used in English since at least the 14th century and is now commonly used in everyday language to refer to someone who is skeptical or reluctant to believe something without evidence.

Synonyms in English

• Skeptical
• Doubtful
• Unbelievable
• Incredible
• Prejudiced

Synonyms in other languages

• French: "doubté", "méfiant"
• Spanish: "esceptico", "dubioso"
• German: "skeptisch"
• Italian: "scarso di fede"
• Japanese: "忍耐"

Similar Idioms

• sacred cow

• dark horse

• do or die