a modicum of doubt

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a modicum of doubt" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when expressing a small or limited amount of uncertainty or skepticism about something. Example: "Despite the overwhelming evidence, there remains a modicum of doubt regarding the accuracy of the findings."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

6 human-written examples

The timing seemed to inject a modicum of doubt into the Mets' early plans.

The New York Times - Sports

There is still a modicum of doubt, and some mystery, as to what Saddam did with all those precursors and agents for his biological and chemical arms programmes.

The Guardian - Opinion

Then came a promise that his side would fight harder than ever to win it back, and there was not a modicum of doubt in anyone's mind that he meant it.

Independent

Milik italicized the personal name Rabba, thereby hinting at least to a modicum of doubt about this reading.

University of Chicago

You're too good to let anyone let you feel a modicum of doubt or sadness.

Huffington Post

This is intentional, as the study retained any item where there was even a modicum of doubt as to their potential relevance and to reduce selection bias.

British Journal of General Practice

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

54 human-written examples

There's no doubt that time and a modicum of elbow grease are required to make cookies: it's harder than brewing a pot of coffee (unless you're Kelefa Sanneh) but easier, say, than making a bouillabaisse.

The New Yorker

Interesting thought, one no doubt meant to inspire a modicum of sobriety and introspection on the part of teens.

Huffington Post

No doubt he did so with at least a modicum of privacy.

The New York Times - Sports

This suggests a modicum of accountability conspicuously absent in India until now, a positive development no doubt.

HuffPost

No doubt, due to the reduction surgery I had on that side in order to achieve a modicum of symmetry, given the size of the lumpectomy I had on the other side.

Huffington Post

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "a modicum of doubt" to express a small but significant level of uncertainty, especially when acknowledging potential counterarguments or limitations.

Common error

Avoid using "a modicum of doubt" when a stronger expression of disbelief or skepticism is more appropriate. This phrase suggests a small degree of uncertainty, not outright rejection.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a modicum of doubt" functions as a noun phrase, typically acting as the object of a verb or preposition. It expresses a limited or small degree of uncertainty. Ludwig examples show the phrase appearing in contexts where a speaker acknowledges uncertainty despite other evidence or assertions. Ludwig AI identifies the phrase as grammatically correct and usable.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Academia

25%

Science

25%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a modicum of doubt" is a grammatically sound noun phrase used to express a small but potentially significant degree of uncertainty. As Ludwig examples show, it appears most frequently in news and media contexts, and is also found in academic and scientific writing. Ludwig AI identifies the phrase as grammatically correct. When writing, remember that "a modicum of doubt" is ideal for expressing measured skepticism, but it should be avoided when a stronger expression of disbelief is warranted. Consider alternatives like "a hint of uncertainty" or "a slight reservation" for subtle variations in meaning.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a hint of uncertainty

Replaces "doubt" with "uncertainty", implying a slightly broader sense of wavering conviction.

a slight reservation

Emphasizes a withholding of complete agreement or acceptance.

a small degree of skepticism

Replaces "doubt" with the more formal "skepticism", suggesting a questioning attitude.

a touch of suspicion

Introduces an element of mistrust or wariness.

a shade of hesitation

Highlights the act of pausing or delaying due to uncertainty.

a flicker of disbelief

Implies a momentary lapse in accepting something as true.

a whisper of uncertainty

Conveys a very subtle and faint sense of doubt.

a trace of apprehension

Suggests a slight fear or anxiety about possible outcomes.

a shadow of ambiguity

Focuses on the lack of clarity or definiteness.

a grain of incredulity

Highlights the difficulty in believing something, emphasizing its implausibility.

FAQs

How can I use "a modicum of doubt" in a sentence?

You can use "a modicum of doubt" to express a small amount of uncertainty. For example, "Despite the evidence, there's still "a modicum of doubt" about the defendant's guilt".

What can I say instead of "a modicum of doubt"?

You can use alternatives like "a hint of uncertainty", "a slight reservation", or "a small degree of skepticism" depending on the context.

Is it correct to say "a modicum of doubts"?

No, the correct phrase is ""a modicum of doubt"". "Doubt" is typically used as an uncountable noun in this context.

What's the difference between "a modicum of doubt" and "a lot of doubt"?

"A modicum of doubt" implies a small amount of uncertainty, while "a lot of doubt" suggests a significant level of uncertainty. The former is more subtle and understated.