clouded by doubt

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "clouded by doubt" is correct and can be used in written English.
It is typically used to describe a situation where someone is uncertain or unsure about something. Example: The outcome of the trial was clouded by doubt, as there was not enough evidence to prove the defendant's guilt.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

3 human-written examples

Even before the jirga's opening, set for Wednesday, it is being clouded by doubt and confusion — much of it sown by Mr. Karzai himself.

The New York Times

But Snowden's intellect is most effectively conveyed in Gordon-Levitt's eyes – watchful, sober and clouded by doubt, they are a window into his impossible ethical quandary.

The Guardian - Film

Two months after the fall of Baghdad, the third fight is well underway, now that the principal rationale cited by President Bush and Secretary of State Colin L. Powell for war with Iraq -- that Saddam Hussein's possession of chemical and biological weapons posed an imminent threat -- remains clouded by doubt.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

55 human-written examples

But OLPC has been clouded by doubts from the start.

The New York Times - Arts

Overall, the authorities insist the situation is improving – a claim strengthened earlier this year by a unusually long run of clear skies – but boasts of progress have long been clouded by doubts about missing data.

The Guardian

Much stands to change in Iran as a result, but the country has important parliamentary elections next month, and the mood of ordinary Iranians is clouded by doubts as to how quickly and meaningfully they will feel any effects in daily life.

The Guardian - Opinion

Her future was clouded by uncertainty and fear.

The New York Times

Uruguay's preparations were clouded by major doubts over Luis Suárez's fitness and he was sorely missed when Costa Rica struck three times in the second half of their opening game to leave them on the brink.

The Guardian - Sport

The next version of the Windows operating system, Vista, is finally about to arrive — years late and clouded by doubts that it might violate antitrust rules in Europe.

The New York Times - Tech

But here the issues are clouded by the murky question of land ownership by the Shinnecocks.

The New York Times

Joan's last years were clouded by dementia.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "clouded by doubt" to express that something is uncertain or unclear because of existing doubts. For example, "The success of the project was clouded by doubt due to budget constraints."

Common error

Avoid using "clouded by doubt" to describe physical attributes. It is better suited for abstract concepts or situations. For instance, instead of saying "His eyes were clouded by doubt", consider "His eyes reflected uncertainty" or "He seemed doubtful."

Linguistic Context

The phrase "clouded by doubt" functions as a descriptive modifier, typically used to describe situations, decisions, or outcomes that are uncertain or questionable. Ludwig AI supports the correctness and common usage of this phrase.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Encyclopedias

20%

Science

20%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "clouded by doubt" is a grammatically sound and relatively common way to express uncertainty or skepticism. Ludwig AI confirms its validity and provides numerous examples from reputable sources. It is particularly prevalent in News & Media and neutral contexts. While versatile, it's best used to describe abstract concepts rather than physical attributes. Remember to avoid using "clouded with doubt", as "clouded by doubt" is the more idiomatic choice.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

shrouded in uncertainty

Emphasizes a lack of clarity and a sense of mystery or concealment.

plagued by uncertainty

Highlights the negative impact and persistent nature of the uncertainty.

tinged with skepticism

Suggests a slight but noticeable presence of doubt or disbelief.

affected by misgivings

Focuses on feelings of unease or apprehension about a situation.

compromised by uncertainty

Implies that the uncertainty has weakened or damaged something.

overshadowed by suspicion

Highlights the presence of mistrust affecting the situation.

colored by distrust

Suggests that a lack of trust is influencing perceptions.

veiled in ambiguity

Emphasizes the lack of clear definition or certainty.

under a cloud of suspicion

Implies a state of being suspected or distrusted.

cast in shadow by doubt

Highlights the obscuring effect of doubt, making things less clear.

FAQs

How can I use "clouded by doubt" in a sentence?

You can use "clouded by doubt" to indicate that something is uncertain or questionable. For example, "The investigation was "clouded by doubt" due to the lack of evidence."

What are some alternatives to "clouded by doubt"?

Alternatives include "shrouded in uncertainty", "plagued by uncertainty", or "tinged with skepticism", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it better to say "clouded with doubt" or "clouded by doubt"?

"Clouded by doubt" is the more common and idiomatic expression. "Clouded with doubt" is less frequently used and may sound awkward to native English speakers.

What does it mean when something is "clouded by doubt"?

It means that the thing in question is uncertain, unclear, or questionable because of doubts surrounding it. There is likely a lack of clarity or confidence in its validity or success.