fair amount of doubt

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "fair amount of doubt" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when expressing uncertainty or skepticism about a situation or statement. Example: "There is a fair amount of doubt regarding the accuracy of the report's findings."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

2 human-written examples

That's a fair amount of doubt.

The New York Times

When you compare the impact he – or Vitor Saba, for that matter - has had to that of Shinji Ono, a fair amount of doubt remains.

The Guardian - Sport

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

57 human-written examples

But more than a few consider all apocalyptic talk of XP's vulnerability as scaremongering by Microsoft and computer security firms.It is certainly true that hardware makers, as well as software firms, have encouraged a fair amount of FUD (fear, uncertainty and doubt), hoping to scare XP users at least into replacing much of their software, if not their hardware as well.

The Economist

Much twichiness and a fair amount of indictments will no doubt ensue.

The New York Times

This is, obviously, not inherently good for consumers.I spend a fair amount of time reporting on Philips, and I have not a shred of doubt that the company's anger over this move is legitimate.

The Economist

The pipeline will be able to withstand a fair amount of unrest, not least because it is being laid underground.But many doubt the government's good intentions.

The Economist

I highly doubt Jay-Z read it, but there were a fair amount of similar pieces arguing essentially the same thing.

Vice

There's no doubt that maintaining a tropical jungle in a desert climate probably requires a fair amount of water.

The Guardian

This – combined no doubt with some independent interest in the topic – leads to Hobbes devoting a fair amount of attention to issues in the philosophy of language.

SEP

And yet, having spent a fair amount of time with Mr. Gingrich for a cover story I wrote for The New York Times Magazine two years ago, I never had much doubt that he was serious this time around.

The New York Times

A fair amount of time passed.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "fair amount of doubt", ensure the context clearly specifies what the doubt pertains to. Providing specifics strengthens the statement.

Common error

Avoid using "fair amount of doubt" when the situation warrants a stronger expression of certainty. If the evidence overwhelmingly suggests something is incorrect, opt for phrases like "there is no doubt" or "it is certain".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "fair amount of doubt" functions as a qualifier expressing a level of uncertainty or skepticism. As Ludwig AI highlights, the phrase is grammatically correct and conveys a notable degree of doubt without being absolute.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

75%

Science

25%

Formal & Business

0%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "fair amount of doubt" is a grammatically sound way to express a level of uncertainty or skepticism, as affirmed by Ludwig AI. While not exceedingly common, it appears in reputable sources, particularly in News & Media. The phrase serves to indicate that a degree of uncertainty exists without making an absolute claim. Alternatives such as "considerable uncertainty" or "significant skepticism" can be used depending on the specific context and desired emphasis. When using "fair amount of doubt", ensure clarity regarding the object of the doubt to maximize its impact.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

considerable uncertainty

Emphasizes the extent of the uncertainty, similar to a significant amount of doubt.

significant skepticism

Focuses more on disbelief or questioning rather than general uncertainty.

notable apprehension

Highlights feelings of anxiety or worry related to the doubt.

serious reservations

Indicates more formal or official doubts about something.

marked uncertainty

Like considerable uncertainty, this focuses on the degree of uncertainty.

substantial misgivings

Emphasizes feelings of unease or concern.

palpable uncertainty

Suggests the uncertainty is easily perceived or felt.

real lack of conviction

Highlights the absence of strong belief or certainty.

perceptible ambiguity

Focuses on the quality of being open to more than one interpretation.

lingering questions

Implies that doubts remain even after investigation or consideration.

FAQs

How can I use "fair amount of doubt" in a sentence?

You can use "fair amount of doubt" to express uncertainty or skepticism about a particular situation. For example, "There is a fair amount of doubt surrounding the accuracy of those claims."

What's a good alternative to "fair amount of doubt"?

Alternatives to "fair amount of doubt" include "considerable uncertainty", "significant skepticism", or "serious reservations", depending on the specific context.

Is it better to say "fair amount of doubt" or "significant amount of doubt"?

Both "fair amount of doubt" and "significant amount of doubt" are grammatically correct and can be used interchangeably. "Significant amount of doubt" might convey a slightly stronger sense of uncertainty.

When should I avoid using the phrase "fair amount of doubt"?

Avoid using "fair amount of doubt" when the situation requires a stronger statement of certainty or disbelief. In such cases, phrases like "there is no doubt" or "it is certain" are more appropriate.