beginnings of doubt

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "beginnings of doubt" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe the initial stages or onset of uncertainty or skepticism about something. Example: "As the project progressed, the team started to notice the beginnings of doubt regarding the feasibility of their timeline."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Science

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

60 human-written examples

We see on Charlotte's face the beginnings of her doubts and fears appearing from underneath; she's great at showing these small existential crises coming out, then being pushed back down again".

Los Angeles Times

quietoaktree wrote: "The beginnings of a Kurdistan?" I doubt it.

BBC

A moment of doubt.

The New York Times

Climate of Doubt?

The New York Times - Magazine

Merchants of Doubt.

Los Angeles Times

So yes, Arya's training may have been infuriating, but it showed the beginnings of a payoff at the end of the series and will no doubt become more resonant once season six arrives.

The Guardian - TV & Radio

The French armed forces spokesman, Christophe Prazuck, said: "Everyone has doubts about everything at the moment and we do not have the slightest beginnings of an answer yet".

The Guardian

The beginnings of this are visible.

The Economist

-- the beginnings of Bat Boy.

The New York Times

They are the beginnings of a nation.

The New York Times

That was the beginnings of the mouse".

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "beginnings of doubt" to signal the very first appearance of uncertainty, often before it becomes a strong conviction. It's ideal for describing subtle shifts in attitude or perspective.

Common error

Avoid using "beginnings of doubt" when the uncertainty is already well-established or significant. This phrase is best suited for describing the initial, subtle emergence of doubt, not a full-blown crisis of confidence.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "beginnings of doubt" functions as a noun phrase, typically serving as the subject or object of a sentence or clause. According to Ludwig AI, the phrase is grammatically correct and describes the initial stages of uncertainty or skepticism.

Expression frequency: Missing

Frequent in

News & Media

33%

Encyclopedias

33%

Science

33%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Academia

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "beginnings of doubt" is a grammatically sound phrase used to describe the initial emergence of uncertainty or skepticism. Ludwig AI confirms its correct usage. While versatile, it's best employed to indicate subtle shifts in belief or confidence rather than established uncertainty. Its suitability spans various contexts, maintaining a neutral register. Related phrases include "early signs of uncertainty" and "initial inklings of skepticism". Though examples are limited, authoritative sources like The New York Times and The Guardian demonstrate its reliability.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

early signs of uncertainty

Focuses on the initial indications of a lack of conviction, emphasizing the observable signals.

initial inklings of skepticism

Highlights the first, faint feelings of disbelief or questioning, suggesting a gradual onset.

first stirrings of disbelief

Emphasizes the awakening or emergence of a feeling that something is not true or trustworthy.

nascent feelings of uncertainty

Uses "nascent" to convey the idea of newly born or just starting to develop feelings of not being sure.

emerging reservations

Highlights the gradual development of hesitations or concerns about something.

growing sense of unease

Emphasizes an increasing feeling of discomfort or anxiety related to uncertainty.

budding anxieties

Uses "budding" to illustrate the early stage of development of anxious feelings.

fledgling hesitations

Uses "fledgling" to emphasize the new and untested nature of the hesitations.

incipient worries

Highlights the initial stage of developing worries or concerns.

dawning awareness of uncertainty

Focuses on the gradual realization or understanding that something is uncertain.

FAQs

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

You can use "beginnings of doubt" to describe the initial emergence of uncertainty or skepticism regarding something. For example, "As the project progressed, the team started to notice the "beginnings of doubt" regarding the feasibility of their timeline."

What can I say instead of "beginnings of doubt"?

You can use alternatives like "early signs of uncertainty", "initial inklings of skepticism", or "first stirrings of disbelief" depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it appropriate to use "beginnings of doubt" in formal writing?

Yes, "beginnings of doubt" is suitable for formal writing. While not overly technical, it conveys a precise meaning and can be used effectively in academic, professional, or journalistic contexts.

What's the difference between "beginnings of doubt" and "a moment of doubt"?

"Beginnings of doubt" suggests the initial emergence of uncertainty, while "a moment of doubt" refers to a specific instance or period of wavering confidence. The former is about the onset, the latter about a temporary state.