express reservations

USAGE SUMMARY

"express reservations" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
You can use it when you want to express uncertainty or doubt about something. For example, "I am considering taking a job in a new city, but I express reservations about leaving my current job and home."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Even some cosmologists have begun to express reservations.

The New York Times - Magazine

It's more common, though, to hear people express reservations.

The New York Times

(He did, though, express reservations about suicide attacks on civilians).

The New York Times

But he did express reservations — lots of them.

The New York Times - Magazine

Analysts like the idea of world allocation funds, but they often express reservations and caveats.

The New York Times

Some 30% of voters and 22% of Republicans express reservations about his age.

The Economist

Senior Communist Party officials often express reservations at allowing businesses unfettered access to China's land.

The New York Times

Instead, they tend to express reservations about "female supremacy" or "man-hating".

The Guardian - Lifestyle

But some observers express reservations, saying that starting a school is not just a simple recipe.

The New York Times

It's a pretty tempting proposition, though even tech-friendly politicians express reservations.

The New York Times - Magazine

Leaders continued to express reservations about being drawn into the conflict in any way.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "express reservations", be specific about the reasons for your doubts to ensure clarity and avoid ambiguity.

Common error

While "express reservations" is widely accepted, in casual conversations, consider using alternatives like "I'm not sure about that" or "I have some doubts" for a more natural tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "express reservations" functions as a verb phrase where "express" acts as the verb and "reservations" serves as the direct object. The phrase typically introduces a statement of doubt, hesitation, or disagreement. Ludwig indicates this is a correct and usable phrase.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

67%

Science

18%

Formal & Business

5%

Less common in

Wiki

1%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "express reservations" is a widely used and grammatically correct way to convey doubts or hesitations about something, as confirmed by Ludwig. It is most commonly found in news and media contexts, as well as in scientific and formal business settings. While it's a versatile phrase, it's important to be specific about the reasons for your doubts and to consider using more informal alternatives in casual conversations. Common related phrases include "voice concerns" and "raise objections".

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

voice concerns

Focuses on expressing worries or anxieties about a specific issue.

have misgivings

Highlights a sense of unease or doubt about a future event.

raise objections

Highlights the act of formally disagreeing or protesting.

air doubts

Implies sharing uncertainties or apprehensions openly.

express skepticism

Focuses on questioning the truth or validity of something.

show apprehension

Emphasizes the display of fear or unease.

register dissent

Highlights formally disagreeing with a decision or opinion.

harbor suspicions

Suggests privately holding doubts or distrust.

communicate worries

Emphasizes the act of sharing anxieties with others.

feel uneasy

Conveys a general sense of discomfort or anxiety.

FAQs

How can I use "express reservations" in a sentence?

You can use "express reservations" to indicate that you have doubts or concerns about something. For example, "Several members of the committee "express reservations" about the proposed budget cuts".

What's the difference between "express reservations" and "express concerns"?

"Express reservations" implies a degree of hesitation or doubt, while "express concerns" suggests a more direct expression of worry or anxiety. The former is generally milder in tone.

Which is correct, "express reservation" or "express reservations"?

"Express reservations" is more commonly used and grammatically correct when referring to general doubts or hesitations. "Express reservation" could be used if referring to a single, specific doubt, but this is much less frequent.

What are some alternatives to "express reservations"?

Alternatives include "voice concerns", "raise objections", or "air doubts", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.