a veil of doubt

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a veil of doubt" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a situation where uncertainty or skepticism obscures clarity or understanding. Example: "As the investigation progressed, a veil of doubt began to cloud the initial findings, leaving everyone questioning the validity of the evidence."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

1 human-written examples

Ironically, the very experience requisite for thorough knowledge of an object places the knowledge under a veil of doubt since experience inevitably carries the imprint of the noetic agent's subjective history, emotions, and desires.

SEP

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

58 human-written examples

Dark, pregnant clouds hang low and a hot wind stirs up a veil of dust.

Unicef

That's not a call for a return to the past — for the veil of doubt cast over Tess Durbeyfield as she lies in a wood at Alec's mercy.

The New York Times - Books

I believe that if they addressed these problems, they would find, instead of a resentful electorate, one thankful that the veil of doubt and fear of an unknown future is lifted.

The New York Times

If so, then we cannot be left in the limbo of skeptical doubt behind a veil of appearances wondering where the truth lies.

SEP

The State Senate's Democratic leader, Richard J. Codey of West Orange, said, "The administration only invites more doubt and suspicion by throwing a veil of secrecy over an action plan to end the chaos on the inspection lines".

The New York Times

Overhead, he strung a veil of mirrors.

The New York Times

But most of this happens behind a veil of secrecy.

The Economist

Astoria was lost behind a veil of rain.

The New York Times - Magazine

Private companies by comparison operate behind a veil of secrecy.

The Economist

But a veil of secrecy descended over his journey.

The New York Times - Books

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "a veil of doubt" to subtly introduce uncertainty, particularly when discussing subjective experiences or interpretations rather than concrete facts.

Common error

Avoid using "a veil of doubt" when describing situations where evidence is definitively clear. It's best suited for scenarios where subjective interpretation plays a significant role.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a veil of doubt" functions as a noun phrase, typically used as an object or complement to a verb. It describes something that obscures or diminishes certainty, leading to questioning or disbelief. Ludwig AI confirms its correct usage.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

33%

Science

33%

Formal & Business

33%

Less common in

Wiki

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a veil of doubt" is a grammatically correct and usable phrase that signifies uncertainty or skepticism. Ludwig AI examples confirm its usage across diverse contexts including Science, News & Media and Formal & Business communication. Although less frequent than alternatives like "a shadow of uncertainty", it effectively conveys a sense of obscured clarity. When using this phrase, ensure it aligns with the subjective nature of the context, avoiding instances where definitive evidence exists.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a shadow of uncertainty

Changes the metaphor from a veil to a shadow, suggesting a less pervasive but still significant presence of doubt.

a cloud of suspicion

Replaces "doubt" with "suspicion", implying a more active distrust or questioning.

an atmosphere of skepticism

Shifts from a visual metaphor to describing the overall feeling or environment.

a hint of uncertainty

Reduces the strength of the doubt, suggesting it's only a slight or subtle feeling.

a lingering question

Focuses on the unresolved aspect of the situation, implying doubt remains because something is unanswered.

a sense of unease

Shifts the focus to the feeling of discomfort caused by the doubt, rather than the doubt itself.

a feeling of distrust

Specifies the negative feeling associated with the lack of certainty.

a climate of disbelief

Emphasizes a widespread or general lack of belief, rather than individual doubt.

a web of uncertainty

Changes the visual metaphor to a tangled network, suggesting complexity and difficulty in resolving the doubt.

a question mark over

A more direct and less metaphorical expression of doubt or uncertainty regarding something.

FAQs

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

You can use "a veil of doubt" to describe a situation where uncertainty or skepticism obscure clarity or understanding. For example: "As the investigation progressed, "a veil of doubt" began to cloud the initial findings."

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

You can use alternatives like "a shadow of uncertainty", "a cloud of suspicion", or "an atmosphere of skepticism" depending on the context.

Is it better to say "veil of doubt" or "cloud of doubt"?

Both "veil of doubt" and "cloud of doubt" are acceptable. The choice depends on the specific nuance you want to convey. A "veil" suggests a more subtle obscuring, while a "cloud" might imply a heavier, more pervasive sense of uncertainty.

What's the difference between "a veil of doubt" and "a veil of secrecy"?

"A veil of doubt" refers to a situation where uncertainty or skepticism is present, while "a veil of secrecy" suggests that information is being deliberately concealed or kept hidden.