create doubts

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "create doubts" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing the act of causing uncertainty or skepticism about something. Example: "The new evidence presented in the trial may create doubts about the defendant's guilt."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

23 human-written examples

It has all been more than enough to create doubts, to increase caution.

The New York Times - Sports

But just leaving the debt pile at close to its original size could stifle economic activity and create doubts about the financial sector's viability.

The New York Times

Certainly, any serious talk of allowing states to seek bankruptcy protection under Chapter 9 — which municipalities can currently pursue — could create doubts in an anxious municipal bond market.

The New York Times

One loss, or even just a solitary knockdown or slightly controversial victory can define the career of a fighter, and create doubts for even the most impassive analyst.

Independent

This is a place where our associations — sandals and piles of coins versus shoes and bills — create doubts that hang in the air, like an annoying buzz.

The New York Times - Books

Ms. Dunham's illness may remind some voters of Mr. Obama's white, Midwestern family at a time when Republicans are trying to create doubts about his identity.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

37 human-written examples

It can create doubt.

The Washington Post

Anxiety and anger can create doubt around people's intentions.

The Guardian

It may, in fact, create doubt, which undercuts faith.

The New York Times - Magazine

Totally, unbelievably untrue, but it does create doubt and they just drive right through that".

The Guardian

"And it will create doubt amongst private-sector folks who need to help protect us".

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "create doubts" when you want to emphasize the action of causing uncertainty rather than just its existence. For example, "The politician's evasive answers created doubts about his honesty."

Common error

While "create doubts" is acceptable, consider more nuanced alternatives like "raise questions" or "foster uncertainty" in formal contexts to avoid sounding repetitive or simplistic.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "create doubts" functions as a verb phrase where "create" is the transitive verb and "doubts" is the direct object. It describes the action of causing or producing uncertainty or skepticism. As Ludwig AI suggests, this is a correct and usable phrase.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Academia

25%

Formal & Business

25%

Less common in

Science

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "create doubts" is a grammatically sound and readily understandable expression used to convey the action of causing uncertainty or skepticism. While flagged by Ludwig AI as correct and usable, its frequency is only uncommon. It often appears in news and media contexts, as well as academic discussions. When aiming for a more nuanced tone, consider using synonyms like "raise questions" or "foster uncertainty". Remember that being too repetitive can negatively impact the text.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

generate skepticism

Emphasizes the production of a questioning attitude.

raise suspicions

Focuses on creating a feeling of mistrust or skepticism.

trigger questions

Suggests initiating inquiries or uncertainties.

instill misgivings

Focuses on creating feelings of apprehension or unease.

foster uncertainty

Emphasizes the gradual development of a lack of confidence.

prompt disbelief

Highlights the action of causing someone to not believe something.

sow seeds of doubt

Highlights the subtle introduction of uncertainty.

fuel distrust

Focuses on intensifying an existing lack of trust.

cast aspersions

Suggests a more direct and potentially damaging creation of doubt regarding someone's character or reputation.

arouse cynicism

Emphasizes the development of a dismissive or negative outlook.

FAQs

How can I use "create doubts" in a sentence?

You can use "create doubts" to describe an action that causes uncertainty. For example, "The conflicting reports began to "create doubts" about the project's feasibility."

What are some alternatives to "create doubts"?

Alternatives include "raise questions", "foster uncertainty", or "sow seeds of doubt", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it better to say "create doubts" or "raise doubts"?

Both "create doubts" and "raise doubts" are grammatically correct and widely used. The best choice depends on the specific context and desired emphasis. "Raise doubts" might be slightly more common in general usage.

Which is more impactful: "create doubts" or "generate skepticism"?

"Generate skepticism" is a more formal alternative, while "create doubts" is more direct. "Generate skepticism" focuses on the outcome of producing a questioning attitude, whereas "create doubts" focuses on the action.