face of scepticism

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "face of scepticism" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a situation or person that embodies or represents doubt or disbelief. Example: "Despite the face of scepticism from her peers, she continued to pursue her innovative ideas with determination."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Business

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

13 human-written examples

In the face of scepticism, expanding the European Championship to 24 teams looks like a qualified success.

The Guardian - Sport

The truce was proposed by UN and Arab League envoy Lakhdar Brahimi in the face of scepticism from opposition activists and rebels.

The Guardian

Bank of England policymakers have stepped up their efforts to defend Threadneedle Street's new approach of forward guidance, in the face of scepticism in the City.

The Guardian - Business

The reforms, which have been personally championed by Mr Duncan Smith in the face of scepticism from the Treasury, represent perhaps the biggest change to the welfare state since its inception.

Independent

Brennan also gave a repeated defence of the use of drones in the face of scepticism from some senators particularly over the legal authority for the president to order the killing of American citizens.

The Guardian

In the face of scepticism and inertia from the corporate world we started a global experiment to engage with audiences to ascertain human interest to prove that there is a market and a place for altruistic products.

The Guardian

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

47 human-written examples

Geoff Lockwood, chairman of the trust, continued to insist, in the face of increasing scepticism, that restoration was still feasible.

The Guardian

He works in the face of heavy scepticism, and with the prospect of humiliation by grizzly bears.

The Guardian

The Taliban have long maintained – in the face of increasing scepticism – that their leader is still alive.

The Guardian

In the face of widespread scepticism, Netanyahu sought to persuade the US president that he does indeed want peace.

The Guardian

He refused the government's request to dismiss the case out of hand.In the face of judicial scepticism, the government has retreated somewhat.

The Economist

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use the phrase "face of scepticism" to describe situations where doubt or disbelief is openly expressed or evident. It adds a layer of direct confrontation to the scenario.

Common error

Avoid using "face of scepticism" when the situation involves only mild questioning or simple curiosity. This phrase implies a stronger, more overt sense of doubt or opposition.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "face of scepticism" functions as a prepositional phrase, often used adverbially to modify a verb or clause. It describes the circumstances or environment in which an action takes place, particularly highlighting the presence of doubt or disbelief. Ludwig AI confirms its validity.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

70%

Business

15%

Science

15%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "face of scepticism" is a common and grammatically sound expression used to describe situations marked by doubt or disbelief. As Ludwig AI confirms, it appears frequently in news and media, business, and scientific contexts. When writing, remember that it's best used when expressing overt or evident doubt, but may be too strong for situations with mere questioning. Consider alternatives like "amid disbelief" or "despite doubts" to add more nuance. Its register is neutral, which makes it appropriate in a variety of writing contexts.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

in defiance of skepticism

This phrase suggests a more active resistance or opposition to the skepticism.

in the teeth of disbelief

Implies facing strong and direct opposition or disbelief.

despite doubts

This phrase emphasizes the existence of doubts, but suggests action taken regardless of those doubts.

confronting doubt

Highlights the act of actively addressing or dealing with feelings of doubt.

in spite of cynicism

This phrase uses cynicism, a form of deep skepticism, as the opposing force.

in light of incredulity

Emphasizes the aspect of disbelief, making it a key factor in the context.

amid disbelief

This alternative focuses on the atmosphere of disbelief surrounding an event or statement.

notwithstanding reservations

This phrase indicates that some reservations exist, but they don't prevent action.

against a backdrop of doubt

This alternative sets the scene by describing a doubtful atmosphere.

in the presence of doubt

This describes a situation where doubt is clearly present.

FAQs

How can I use "face of scepticism" in a sentence?

You can use "face of scepticism" to describe a situation where someone is met with doubt or disbelief, for example, "The proposal was met with a "face of scepticism" from the board members."

What's a good alternative to "face of scepticism"?

Alternatives include "amid disbelief", "despite doubts", or "in defiance of skepticism", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it appropriate to use "face of skepticism" in formal writing?

Yes, "face of scepticism" is appropriate for formal writing, especially when describing reactions or challenges to ideas or proposals. It is found in credible news and business sources.

What is the difference between "face of scepticism" and "a degree of scepticism"?

"Face of scepticism" describes an overt manifestation of doubt, while "a degree of scepticism" indicates a more general or underlying feeling of doubt without necessarily being outwardly expressed.