Cast doubt

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "cast doubt" is correct and usable in written English. You can use it when discussing skepticism or uncertainty about a claim, idea, or situation. Example: The new evidence cast doubt on the previous findings. Alternative expressions include "raise questions" and "challenge the validity."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

But others cast doubt.

The New York Times

One recent study cast doubt.

The New York Times - Health

Meselson cast doubt on it.

The New Yorker

But other studies have cast doubt.

The New York Times - Health

But it seems ungenerous to cast doubt.

The Guardian - Travel

But studies cast doubt on that.

The New York Times - Health

The move seemed to cast doubt on the officer's story.

The New York Times

The tests cast doubt on one relationship and proved another.

The New Yorker

But recent evidence has cast doubt on Mr. Coulson's claims.

The New York Times

Mr. Schoenberg cast doubt on the notarized statement.

The New York Times - Arts

Some later accounts by witnesses cast doubt on that claim.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "cast doubt", ensure the context clearly indicates what is being questioned and why. Provide supporting evidence or reasoning to strengthen your argument.

Common error

Avoid using "cast doubt" without specifying what the doubt pertains to. For example, instead of saying "The evidence cast doubt", specify "The evidence cast doubt on the accuracy of the initial report".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "cast doubt" functions as a verb phrase, primarily used to indicate that something is questionable or uncertain. Ludwig AI analysis indicates that it is commonly used to express skepticism or to challenge the validity of a statement or claim.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

56%

Science

34%

Encyclopedias

4%

Less common in

Formal & Business

2%

Reference

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "cast doubt" is a commonly used verb phrase that serves to introduce uncertainty or challenge the validity of something. Ludwig AI confirms its widespread use across various contexts, particularly in news, scientific writing, and encyclopedic entries. While grammatically correct and versatile, it's crucial to provide clear context when using "cast doubt" to ensure your meaning is accurately conveyed. Consider alternatives like "raise suspicions" or "call into question" based on the specific nuance you aim to convey. By avoiding vague references and providing supporting evidence, you can effectively employ "cast doubt" to strengthen your arguments and foster critical analysis.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

call into question

More formal and direct, implying a challenge to the correctness or validity of something.

challenge the validity of

Directly confronts the accuracy or soundness of something, often requiring evidence.

question the truth of

Focuses directly on whether something is factual or accurate.

raise suspicions

Focuses on instilling a feeling of mistrust or uncertainty, rather than directly challenging validity.

create uncertainty about

Focuses on the result of making something unsure or indefinite.

throw suspicion on

Similar to "raise suspicions" but suggests a more deliberate act of making something seem untrustworthy.

arouse skepticism regarding

Suggests prompting a questioning or doubting attitude.

undermine confidence in

Implies weakening belief or trust in something, often gradually.

shake faith in

Implies weakening a strong belief or conviction.

plant seeds of doubt

Suggests introducing uncertainty in a subtle or insidious way.

FAQs

How can I use "cast doubt" in a sentence?

You can use "cast doubt" to express uncertainty or skepticism about something. For instance, "New evidence "cast doubt" on the company's claims".

What's the difference between "cast doubt" and "raise questions"?

"Cast doubt" implies a stronger sense of uncertainty or skepticism, while "raise questions" simply suggests that further investigation may be needed. To "cast doubt" suggests something is likely untrue, while to "raise questions" just suggests further inquiry.

What are some synonyms for "cast doubt"?

Synonyms for "cast doubt" include "raise suspicions", "call into question", and "challenge the validity of".

Is it better to "cast doubt" or "express skepticism"?

Both phrases are valid, but "cast doubt" is often used when there is specific evidence or reason to question something, while "express skepticism" can refer to a more general feeling of doubt or disbelief.