questionable beliefs

[KWES-chuh-nuh-bul bih-LEEFS]
noun phrase
crenças questionáveis
1. Beliefs or convictions that are open to doubt, skepticism, or challenge due to lack of evidence, logical inconsistency, or dubious sources
The cult leader's questionable beliefs about immortality attracted vulnerable followers.
As crenças questionáveis do líder da seita sobre a imortalidade atraíram seguidores vulneráveis.
2. Ideas or convictions that are morally or ethically suspect and warrant further examination
His questionable beliefs about gender roles were challenged by modern society.
Suas crenças questionáveis sobre papéis de gênero foram desafiadas pela sociedade moderna.
3. Convictions that are based on superstition, pseudoscience, or unproven theories
The doctor warned patients against questionable beliefs in alternative medicine without scientific backing.
O médico alertou os pacientes contra crenças questionáveis em medicina alternativa sem comprovação científica.
In Brazilian culture, this phrase is commonly used in religious, political, and social contexts to describe beliefs that contradict mainstream science or traditional values. In the USA, it's frequently used in academic and media discourse to critique conspiracy theories, pseudoscience, and fringe ideologies. Both cultures value critical thinking and evidence-based reasoning when evaluating such beliefs.
NYC Slang
sus beliefs (sus = suspicious)
Synonyms / Sinônimos
dubious beliefsdoubtful convictionssuspect ideasunsubstantiated beliefsunfounded convictions
Antonyms / Antônimos
established beliefsproven convictionswell-founded beliefsverifiable truths

Regional Variations

General Brazilian Portuguese
crenças questionáveis
Standard usage across Brazil
Rio de Janeiro
crenças meio estranhas
More colloquial, using 'meio estranhas' (somewhat strange)
São Paulo
crenças duvidosas
More formal business/academic context
Portugal
crenças discutíveis
Portuguese preference for 'discutíveis' (debatable) over 'questionáveis'

Related Words

skepticismdoubtpseudosciencesuperstitionunprovencredibilityevidenceconviction

Related Idioms & Phrases

take something with a grain of salt
eye with suspicion
cast doubt on
hold dubious views
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