a slight doubt

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a slight doubt" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when expressing a small amount of uncertainty or hesitation about something. Example: "I have a slight doubt about the accuracy of the data presented in the report."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

17 human-written examples

Kick-off: Today, 3pm (Highlights BBC1 10.05pm) Team news: Manchester City have Mario Balotelli and Gareth Barry back from suspension, while Aleksandar Kolarov (thigh) is a slight doubt.

Independent

However, there is a slight doubt over Sexton's fitness and the Lions contender is being examined for a minor injury, according to head coach Declan Kidney.

Independent

Mateja Kezman is a slight doubt for the Manchester United match but will be fit for Chelsea's next game in the Premiership against Tottenham on Saturday.

The Guardian - Sport

There is a slight doubt as to whether García's shot crossed the line but the incident could have had even more devastating consequences for Chelsea if the referee Lubos Michel had interpreted it differently.

The Guardian - Sport

There was a certain inevitability about Ollie Devoto's 66th-minute bonus point try, with a slight doubt over the fitness of Henry Slade the only seasonal headache for Rob Baxter.

The Guardian - Sport

It has been part of the landscape of higher education for nearly 20 years and suddenly, with only a slight doubt over transitional arrangements in 2008, it is to be cancelled.

The Guardian

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

43 human-written examples

"There is not even a slightest doubt that Basayev was killed," he said.

The Guardian

And despite all this, when the morning comes, I can shout even without a slightest doubt -- I love having children!

Huffington Post

If there is any slight doubt about it, my answer is no.

Huffington Post

"The jury is still very much out on the new team and if I do have a slight nagging doubt, I think it's that they are very keen on parachuting in new high-profile people that they think are going to wave a magic wand.

The Guardian - Business

Even with Billy Vunipola emerging as a slight injury doubt for Saturday's Test against Fiji the theme is set to be continued by another big South Sea islander, Nathan Hughes, who is poised to take over at No8. Vunipola is described by England's medical staff as having "upper body soreness" which will sideline him from training until Wednesday at the earliest.

The Guardian - Sport

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "a slight doubt" when you want to express uncertainty without conveying strong skepticism or disbelief. It's suitable for situations where you have a minor reservation or concern.

Common error

Avoid using "a slight doubt" when your uncertainty is actually significant. Choose stronger phrases if you have considerable reservations.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a slight doubt" functions as a noun phrase that expresses a mild degree of uncertainty. Ludwig examples show it modifying nouns related to fitness, stamina, or conditions for events to happen.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

70%

Academia

15%

Science

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

2%

Encyclopedias

2%

Wiki

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "a slight doubt" is a versatile expression used to indicate a minor level of uncertainty or reservation. Ludwig AI confirms it's grammatically correct and frequently used in various contexts, particularly in news and media. When using this phrase, ensure that the level of uncertainty you're conveying is, in fact, slight. Alternatives such as "a minor uncertainty" or "a small reservation" can be used for similar effect. Be mindful of overstating or understating the level of uncertainty to maintain clarity and precision in your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a minor uncertainty

Emphasizes the small degree of uncertainty involved.

a small reservation

Focuses on holding back complete agreement or acceptance.

a touch of skepticism

Highlights a mild form of disbelief or questioning.

a degree of hesitancy

Indicates a pause or reluctance before proceeding.

a shadow of a doubt

Uses a metaphor to convey a small, lingering uncertainty.

a lingering question

Focuses on an unresolved query that remains in mind.

a hint of suspicion

Suggests a subtle feeling that something might be wrong.

a flicker of apprehension

Highlights a brief moment of anxiety or unease.

a nagging worry

Indicates a persistent, bothersome concern.

a passing qualm

Emphasizes the temporary and mild nature of the concern.

FAQs

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

You can use "a slight doubt" to express a small amount of uncertainty about something. For example, "I have "a slight doubt" about whether the project will be completed on time."

What's the difference between "a slight doubt" and "a strong doubt"?

"A slight doubt" indicates a minor level of uncertainty, whereas "a strong doubt" suggests a significant degree of skepticism or disbelief. The choice depends on the intensity of your uncertainty.

Are there situations where it's better to avoid using "a slight doubt"?

If you want to convey complete certainty or conviction, avoid using "a slight doubt". It's also best to steer clear if the context demands stronger language to highlight substantial risks or reservations.

What are some alternatives to "a slight doubt" that I can use in my writing?

Consider using alternatives like "a minor uncertainty", "a small reservation", or "a touch of skepticism", depending on the nuance you wish to convey.