Skeptical Vocabulary

noun a term used to describe magic or trickery, often associated with sleight of hand or illusion

adjective used to describe something as deceptive or illusory

• The magician performed a series of intricate hocus-pocus tricks that left the audience in awe.
• I don't believe in all that hocus-pocus magic stuff.
• Stop trying to pull that hocus-pocus on me, I know what you're up to.
• The politician's promises turned out to be nothing but hocus-pocus to win votes.

adjective showing disbelief or skepticism

• The scientist was incredulous at the results of the experiment, as they defied all known laws of physics.
• I was incredulous when I heard that she won the lottery twice in a row!
• When he told me he was going to climb Mount Everest without any training, I was like, incredulous much?
• Her incredulous laughter echoed through the room as she realized the absurdity of the situation.

noun a sound or expression of contempt, disapproval, or disbelief

verb to express disdain or disbelief towards something

• The expert pooh poohed the idea of using outdated technology for the project.
• Don't pooh pooh my suggestion without considering its benefits.
• Stop pooh poohing everything I say, give it a chance!
• She always pooh poohs any opportunity for personal growth.

noun a sound or utterance expressing disapproval, indignation, or scorn

verb to clear the throat noisily in a pompous way

• The professor let out a harrumph before beginning his lecture.
• When I told him I was running late, he just harrumphed and walked away.
• She gave a dramatic harrumph when she found out she didn't get the job.
• The old man's harrumph was a clear sign of his disapproval.