cause for doubt

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "cause for doubt" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing reasons or factors that lead to uncertainty or skepticism about something. Example: "The lack of evidence presented in the report is a significant cause for doubt regarding its conclusions."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

8 human-written examples

I've no idea how lasting they will be: Benjamin Netanyahu's right-wing government gives cause for doubt.

The New York Times

The only cause for doubt is that Ms Fernández has not yet said that she will run.

The Economist

Since the president last visited Poland, in June 2001, each side of the Atlantic has given the other serious cause for doubt.

The New York Times

This is just common sense, and Mr. Greenspan's failure to embrace it at the age of 78 is, in itself, cause for doubt.

The New York Times

Wershler-Henry suggests that the P.C. with some help from Derrida and Baudrillard ushered us into a world in which the difference between true and false is no longer cause for doubt or grief; falsity is taken for granted.

The New Yorker

Wershler-Henry suggests that the P.C. — with some help from Derrida and Baudrillard — ushered us into a world in which the difference between true and false is no longer cause for doubt or grief; falsity is taken for granted.

The New Yorker

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

50 human-written examples

Now Pakistan has to build about 800km.That it has to pass through the insurgency-ridden province of Balochistan is only one cause for doubting its completion.

The Economist

As soon as by one's own propaganda even a glimpse of right on the other side is admitted, the cause for doubting one's own right is laid.

Forbes

The cop, unsurprisingly, grows fond of Cécile, whose own activities give Alain cause for paranoid doubt; soon, husband and wife are spying on each other in a sort of private Cold War.

The New Yorker

Others have reason for doubt.

The Economist

"There's cause for concern, no doubt about it," she said.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "cause for doubt", ensure the context clearly specifies what is being doubted. Providing specific reasons enhances clarity and strengthens your argument.

Common error

Avoid using "cause for doubt" when the situation warrants stronger language. If there's overwhelming evidence against something, consider phrases like "clear falsehood" or "blatant lie" instead of softening the impact with doubt.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "cause for doubt" functions as a noun phrase, indicating a reason or basis for questioning something. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's a grammatically correct phrase. Examples show it expressing skepticism about claims, actions, or future outcomes.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Science

30%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Wiki

10%

Encyclopedias

5%

Reference

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "cause for doubt" is a grammatically correct noun phrase used to express uncertainty or skepticism, as validated by Ludwig AI. It is most commonly found in news and media, and scientific contexts. The phrase indicates a reason to question something, inviting further scrutiny. While the phrase is acceptable for both formal and informal writing, alternatives like "grounds for skepticism" or "basis for reservation" may be considered for greater nuance in formal settings. When writing, ensure the context clearly specifies what is being doubted to strengthen your argument.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

grounds for skepticism

Emphasizes the basis or justification for being skeptical.

factor inducing doubt

Emphasizes the element that leads to a state of doubt.

basis for reservation

Stresses the reasons for holding back or having reservations.

reason to question

Focuses on the act of questioning rather than the underlying reason.

matter of uncertainty

Highlights the uncertain nature of the situation.

room for suspicion

Indicates the possibility of something being wrong or dishonest.

element of uncertainty

Highlights an element that makes you hesitate to fully trust something

source of apprehension

Shifts the focus to the feeling of unease or worry.

excuse for disbelief

Provides a justification for not believing something.

reason for incredulity

Highlights the feeling of disbelief or astonishment.

FAQs

How can I use "cause for doubt" in a sentence?

You can use "cause for doubt" to express uncertainty or skepticism about something. For example: "The lack of evidence presented in the report is a significant "cause for doubt" regarding its conclusions."

What are some alternatives to "cause for doubt"?

Alternatives include "reason for doubt", "grounds for skepticism", or "matter of uncertainty", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

When is it appropriate to use "cause for doubt"?

It is appropriate to use "cause for doubt" when there are specific reasons or factors that lead to uncertainty or skepticism but not necessarily outright rejection. It suggests a need for further investigation or consideration.

Is "cause for doubt" a formal or informal expression?

"Cause for doubt" is suitable for both formal and informal contexts. However, in very formal writing, you might consider alternatives like "basis for reservation" to convey a more nuanced meaning.