半信半疑
bàn xìn bàn yí
State of doubt
Describes a state of mind where one is simultaneously inclined to believe and disbelieve something. It captures the feeling of uncertainty when presented with information that isn't fully convincing or easily dismissed.
What does 半信半疑 (bàn xìn bàn yí) mean?
半信半疑 (bàn xìn bàn yí) means "state of doubt" in English. Word for word, it breaks down as "half believe half doubt."
Character by character
- 半 bàn half
- 信 xìn believe
- 半 bàn half
- 疑 yí doubt
When to use it
Use this idiom to express skepticism or a lack of full conviction about a statement, rumor, or piece of news. It applies when you find something plausible but still have reservations or suspicions, indicating a balanced internal conflict between acceptance and rejection.
Example
对这件事他有点半信半疑。
Duì zhèjiàn shì tā yǒudiǎn bàn xìn bàn yí.
He's a bit skeptical about this matter.
Pro tip: The idiom specifically conveys an internal feeling of being torn between belief and doubt, rather than an active investigation or questioning. It highlights an emotional or intellectual wavering.
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