a small amount of doubt

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a small amount of doubt" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when expressing a minor level of uncertainty or skepticism about something. Example: "Despite the evidence presented, I still have a small amount of doubt regarding the outcome of the experiment."

✓ Grammatically correct

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

60 human-written examples

The team had first hinted at a change in ticket policy April 2 when Hal Steinbrenner, the team's managing general partner, said, "There's no doubt that a small amount of our tickets might be overpriced".

The New York Times - Sports

If in doubt, test a small amount of carpet before carrying this out.

WikiHow

With perhaps a small amount of prodding.

The New York Times

A gravita - a small amount of seriousness?

The Guardian - Books

Just a small amount of "Lancastrian French".

The Guardian

There are a small amount of workers.

The Guardian

They found a small amount of drugs.

The New York Times

So the companies simply collect a small amount in premiums for a small amount of insurance.

The New York Times

It contains a small amount of aromatic musqué-clone chardonnay.

The New York Times

I'd also done a small amount of research.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

The diet includes a small amount of wine with meals.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "a small amount of doubt" to express a minor level of uncertainty when you want to avoid stronger terms like "significant doubt" or "strong skepticism".

Common error

Avoid using "a small amount of doubt" when you actually feel strong uncertainty. It can weaken your argument or mislead your audience if the doubt is more substantial than you imply.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a small amount of doubt" functions as a noun phrase, typically serving as the object of a verb (e.g., "I have a small amount of doubt") or as a complement to a preposition (e.g., "with a small amount of doubt"). It quantifies the degree of uncertainty.

Expression frequency: Missing

Frequent in

Science

0%

News & Media

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Less common in

Science

0%

News & Media

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "a small amount of doubt" is a grammatically correct and usable English expression to convey a limited level of uncertainty or skepticism. While Ludwig AI validates its correctness, the absence of examples suggests it might not be a very common phrase. It functions as a noun phrase and serves to express a mitigated sense of uncertainty across various contexts. Alternatives include "a trace of doubt" or "a hint of skepticism". Using this phrase effectively involves ensuring it accurately reflects the level of uncertainty and avoiding its use when a stronger expression is more appropriate.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

A trace of doubt

Emphasizes the minimal quantity of doubt, similar to "a small amount of doubt".

A hint of skepticism

Focuses on the skeptical aspect of the doubt, suggesting a questioning attitude.

A slight reservation

Highlights a held-back feeling or hesitation, softer than outright doubt.

A touch of uncertainty

Indicates a mild lack of confidence or sureness.

Some misgivings

Implies a feeling of apprehension or unease about something.

A degree of uncertainty

Suggests that uncertainty can be measured, and in this case, is not high.

Some qualms

Suggests moral or ethical reservations about something.

A lingering question

Emphasizes the unresolved nature of the doubt, suggesting it persists over time.

A seed of suspicion

Suggests a beginning or early stage of doubt, implying potential for growth.

A flicker of disbelief

Emphasizes a momentary or transient doubt, implying it may not be firmly held.

FAQs

How can I use "a small amount of doubt" in a sentence?

You can use "a small amount of doubt" to express a minor level of uncertainty or skepticism. For example, "Despite the evidence presented, I still have a small amount of doubt regarding the outcome of the experiment."

What are some alternatives to "a small amount of doubt"?

You can use alternatives like "a trace of doubt", "a hint of skepticism", or "a slight reservation" depending on the context.

Is it better to say "a small amount of doubt" or "a lot of doubt"?

The choice between "a small amount of doubt" and "a lot of doubt" depends on the degree of uncertainty you want to express. Use "a small amount of doubt" when you have minor reservations and "a lot of doubt" when your uncertainty is significant.

What's the difference between "a small amount of doubt" and "some doubt"?

"A small amount of doubt" emphasizes the limited quantity of doubt, while "some doubt" is more general and doesn't specify the extent of the uncertainty. "A small amount of doubt" is more precise.