Paranoid describes intense, irrational distrust or suspicion that others are plotting against or trying to harm you, often involving delusions of persecution. It signifies unreasonable fear, such as being paranoid about being watched, and in clinical contexts, it relates to severe mental health conditions like paranoid schizophrenia.
Merriam-Webster
Merriam-Webster
Common Usage Examples:
"He became paranoid that his coworkers were trying to get him fired" (irrational suspicion).
"She is very paranoid about leaving the doors unlocked" (extreme caution/fear).
"The actor was paranoid about the paparazzi following him" (excessive worry).
Synonyms of Paranoid:
Suspicious/Distrustful: Unwilling to trust others.
Hypervigilant: Excessively on guard for danger.
Delusional: Believing things that are not based on reality.
Persecuted: Fearing constant harassment or plotting.
Obsessive: Consumed by irrational thoughts.
Merriam-Webster
Merriam-Webster
Key Aspects of Paranoid Behavior:
Mistrust: An irrational, persistent belief that others have hidden motives.
Defensiveness: Argumentative and unable to trust or forgive.
External Locus of Control: Feeling that events are controlled by external, hostile forces.
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