became doubtful about

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "became doubtful about" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when expressing uncertainty or skepticism regarding a particular subject or situation. Example: "After reviewing the evidence, she became doubtful about the accuracy of the report."

✓ Grammatically correct

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

60 human-written examples

Eddie becomes doubtful about a group he has previously followed unquestioningly, much to the concern of his still-devout wife Sarah Michelle Monaghann).

The Guardian - TV & Radio

Though IBM's profits have kept rising, investors have become doubtful about where its future growth will come from, so its shares have fallen by almost 13% since their peak last March (see chart), even as tech stocks and the broader stockmarket have soared.

The Economist

The topic identification algorithm's performance becomes doubtful in various cases.

Information Processing & Management

Under such conditions, the value of "classical" measures of renal function becomes doubtful.

Annals of Intensive Care

Despite his resources and history litigating against BP, Buzbee became increasingly doubtful about his chances of making the steering committee.

The New York Times - Magazine

Dorothy became increasingly doubtful about the "medical model" of mental illness, analysing it in terms of physical causes, and instead looked towards the personal construct theory, developed by George Kelly.

The Guardian

Some Shell shareholders have become increasingly doubtful about the BG deal, which was agreed on the assumption oil prices would recover to $90 a barrel by 2020.

The Guardian - Business

The more time I spend here in the United States, the more doubtful I become about this.

The New York Times - Magazine

A large number of scientific findings have been disproved, or become more doubtful, in recent years.

Forbes

Supposedly Fisons' attitude has become more cooperative, but conservations are doubtful about this.

The New Yorker

He continued to be doubtful about this, but by the early 1950s his doubts had sufficiently dissipated for publication to become a possibility.

SEP

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "became doubtful about" to express a gradual shift in one's certainty or belief regarding a specific subject. This construction is useful when describing a process of increasing skepticism.

Common error

Avoid using "became doubtful about" to describe an instantaneous change of opinion. This phrase suggests a gradual evolution of doubt rather than a sudden realization or revelation.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "became doubtful about" functions as a verb phrase, indicating a transition into a state of uncertainty or skepticism. It connects a subject with a gradual change in their level of confidence or belief regarding a particular topic, person, or situation. Ludwig AI confirms its proper usage.

Expression frequency: Missing

Frequent in

Science

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News & Media

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Formal & Business

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Less common in

Science

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News & Media

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Formal & Business

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Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "became doubtful about" effectively conveys a gradual shift towards uncertainty or skepticism. As confirmed by Ludwig AI, it is grammatically sound and versatile, fitting into various contexts from news to academic discussions. When writing, remember that using this phrase suggests a process of evolving doubt, rather than a sudden change of heart. While synonyms exist, such as "started to question" or "grew skeptical of", the choice depends on the specific shade of meaning you aim to convey.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

Started having doubts regarding

Emphasizes the initiation of uncertainty or second thoughts about something.

Started to question

Focuses on the initiation of doubt or inquiry rather than a developed sense of uncertainty.

Became unsure of

Focuses on a developing lack of certainty or confidence.

Grew skeptical of

Emphasizes an increasing disbelief or cynicism.

Had growing reservations about

Emphasizes the development of concerns and hesitations.

Lost faith in

Indicates a complete or significant reduction in trust or belief.

Grew less confident in

Highlights a diminishing level of assurance or belief.

Began to suspect

Highlights the emergence of a feeling that something is not as it seems.

Turned dubious toward

Suggests a shift from a state of acceptance or neutrality to one of uncertainty and hesitation.

Developed misgivings about

Focuses on the emergence of feelings of unease or apprehension.

FAQs

How can I use "became doubtful about" in a sentence?

You can use "became doubtful about" to describe a gradual increase in skepticism or uncertainty regarding something. For example: "After reviewing the evidence, she "became doubtful about" the accuracy of the report".

What are some alternatives to "became doubtful about"?

Alternatives include phrases like "started to question", "grew skeptical of", or "lost faith in". The most appropriate choice depends on the specific context and the nuance you wish to convey. Consider using "started to question", "grew skeptical of", or "lost faith in".

Is "became doubtful about" formal or informal?

"Became doubtful about" is suitable for both formal and informal contexts. However, in highly formal settings, you might opt for synonyms like "developed reservations regarding" or "grew increasingly dubious of" for a more sophisticated tone. Consider using "developed reservations regarding".

What's the difference between "became doubtful about" and "started doubting"?

"Became doubtful about" suggests a gradual process of developing doubt, whereas "started doubting" indicates the initial point at which doubts began. The former implies a more progressed state of uncertainty. Use "started doubting" if you want to express the inception of your doubts.