doubt

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "doubt" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when expressing uncertainty or lack of conviction about something. Example: "I have my doubts about the effectiveness of this new strategy."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

They doubt that there is any limiting principle.

The New York Times

Without her taking a side, it cast just the right element of doubt over the nature of the decision".

The Guardian

"The state of Georgia remains an extreme outlier in requiring that defendants prove they have mental retardation 'beyond a reasonable doubt'.

The Guardian

But the authenticity of this as Nick's personal, very personal view should be in no doubt.

The Guardian - Opinion

Analysts are in no doubt that the choice will be as definitive for the self-styled leader of Europe's anti-austerity movement, as the destiny of Greece itself.

The Guardian

It is now beyond doubt that by the early 1990s the British state had agents littered all over the most effective paramilitary movement in the western world – the Provisional IRA.

The Guardian

He even broached US labour rights in 2000's Bread And Roses, no doubt appalled by Hollywood's lack of interest.

The Guardian - Film

But the problem for the likes of Bably and Madbouly is that there are also those who doubt this particular dream will ever reach reality.

The Guardian

The disability campaigners who gathered at the Capitol on Tuesday warned that Georgia had created a trap for disabled people, because in mild cases such as Hill's it was almost impossible to prove beyond doubt their challenges.

The Guardian

It is not just the futility of eight years of fighting in Iraq, frustration in Afghanistan, the loss of thousands of soldiers' lives and the maiming of tens of thousands more that are causing so much doubt over a US attack on Syria now.

The Guardian - Opinion

I doubt that he gives much of a toss.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "doubt" in legal contexts, be precise about the degree of uncertainty you are expressing (e.g., "reasonable doubt", "beyond a shadow of a doubt").

Common error

Avoid using "doubt" in affirmative sentences when you actually mean "suspect" or "believe". "I doubt he will come" is different from "I suspect he will come". The former expresses disbelief, while the latter expresses a weaker form of belief.

Linguistic Context

The primary grammatical function of "doubt" is to express uncertainty or disbelief. As a noun, it represents a state of uncertainty; as a verb, it indicates the act of questioning or lacking confidence. As Ludwig AI indicates, the usage is considered correct.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Science

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The term "doubt" is a versatile word used to express uncertainty or disbelief, functioning as both a noun and a verb. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is grammatically correct and frequently used, particularly in news and media contexts. To enhance your writing, use it precisely to convey the intended level of uncertainty, and avoid common errors like using it affirmatively when you mean "suspect". Consider synonyms like "uncertainty" or "skepticism" to fine-tune your message. "Doubt" is indeed a cornerstone in expressing nuanced perspectives.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

uncertainty

Replaces "doubt" with a general term for not being sure.

skepticism

Implies a questioning attitude or disbelief.

lack of conviction

Highlights the absence of strong belief.

apprehension

Focuses on the fear or worry associated with uncertainty.

hesitation

Emphasizes pausing or delaying due to uncertainty.

misgiving

Suggests a feeling of unease or suspicion.

questioning

Replaces "doubt" with a verb form, focusing on the act of questioning.

reservation

Indicates a withholding of complete approval or acceptance.

suspicion

Suggests a belief that something is wrong or dishonest.

indecision

Focuses on the inability to make a firm decision.

FAQs

How can I use "doubt" in a sentence?

You can use "doubt" as a noun to express uncertainty (e.g., "There is some doubt about the outcome"). As a verb, it means to disbelieve or question (e.g., "I doubt his sincerity").

What are some synonyms for "doubt"?

Synonyms for "doubt" include "uncertainty", "skepticism", "hesitation", and "misgiving", each carrying slightly different nuances.

What's the difference between "doubt" and "suspicion"?

"Doubt" generally refers to a feeling of uncertainty or lack of conviction, while "suspicion" implies a belief that something is wrong or dishonest. Suspicion carries a stronger negative connotation than doubt.

Is it correct to say "I have a doubt"?

While understandable, it's more common and grammatically standard to say "I have some doubts" or "I have a doubt about something". Using the plural form "doubts" often sounds more natural.