express doubt that

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "express doubt that" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when you want to indicate uncertainty or skepticism about a particular statement or claim. Example: "I must express doubt that the project will be completed on time given the current delays."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

18 human-written examples

That may be true when it comes to the football program, but some noted economists express doubt that big-college football ever does much more than pay for itself, even in the best of seasons.

The New York Times

Some analysts express doubt that American and European banks will significantly shed assets at this time.

The New York Times

Traditional Yellow Pages providers express doubt that local search advertising will take away from their traditional print business revenues.

The New York Times

But the Russian military establishment continues to express doubt that any American antimissile shield would remain a limited system.

The New York Times

Critics express doubt that the legislation will be "the most impactful living-wage law in the United States," as Ms. Quinn has characterized it.

The New York Times

While he did express doubt that raising taxes in a sluggish economy could be effective, he said he supported the general principle of higher taxes for the wealthy.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

38 human-written examples

"But that takes a while to demonstrate," Ms. Norton said, expressing doubt that much would come of it.

The New York Times

But Argentine political analysts express doubts that he can turn things around.

The New York Times

While some scientists express doubts that China is open enough to foster top-tier science, others are enthusiastic.

The New York Times - Science

Evaluation is also used to account to policy-makers, who express doubts that the benefits of HIA justify its costs.

Environmental Impact Assessment Review

The Shah expressed doubt that Khomeini would agree to that.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "express doubt that", ensure the subject clearly indicates who is voicing the doubt and the object of that doubt is explicitly stated for clarity.

Common error

Avoid using "express doubt that" vaguely. Always specify who is expressing the doubt to prevent ambiguity and ensure the statement's impact is correctly attributed.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "express doubt that" functions as a verb phrase introducing a clause that conveys uncertainty or skepticism. It indicates a lack of conviction regarding the truth or validity of a subsequent statement, similar to examples found in Ludwig.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Science

20%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

5%

Wiki

3%

Social Media

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "express doubt that" serves to introduce a statement of uncertainty or disbelief. Grammatically correct and suitable for various contexts, as confirmed by Ludwig AI, it finds frequent use in news and media. While not exceedingly common, its directness and clarity make it a valuable tool for conveying skepticism, with alternatives such as "question whether" and "cast doubt on" offering subtle variations in emphasis. To ensure accurate usage, always clearly identify the subject expressing doubt and the object of their skepticism.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

question whether

Focuses on the act of questioning the truth or validity of something.

cast doubt on

Emphasizes the act of creating uncertainty about something.

be skeptical of

Highlights a general attitude of skepticism.

have reservations about

Focuses on having concerns or hesitations.

disbelieve

Directly states a lack of belief.

challenge the notion that

Implies a more active opposition to an idea.

view with suspicion

Suggests a distrustful perspective.

harbor doubts about

Emphasizes the internal existence of doubts.

be unconvinced that

Focuses on a lack of persuasion or belief.

take a dim view of

Indicates disapproval and pessimism.

FAQs

How can I use "express doubt that" in a sentence?

You can use "express doubt that" to indicate skepticism or uncertainty about a particular statement. For example, "Experts "express doubt that" the project will be completed on time."

What are some alternatives to "express doubt that"?

Alternatives include "question whether", "cast doubt on", or "be skeptical of", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it better to say "express doubt that" or "have doubts that"?

"Express doubt that" implies a more public or outward voicing of uncertainty, while "have doubts that" suggests an internal feeling. The best choice depends on whether you're describing an internal state or an external statement.

Can "express doubt that" be used in formal writing?

Yes, "express doubt that" is appropriate for formal writing. It's a clear and direct way to convey skepticism, suitable for academic, professional, and journalistic contexts.