full of doubt

USAGE SUMMARY

"full of doubt" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
You can use it to indicate uncertainty or apprehension about a particular situation. For example, "John paused, his mind full of doubt as to whether he should take the risk or not".

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Arts

Opinion

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

It is full of doubt.

The Guardian - Books

People are full of doubt".

The Guardian

So why is Timothy Spall so full of doubt?

The Guardian

Railtrack's only ally, Virgin Trains, was full of doubt.

The Guardian

Around him were faces full of determination and others full of doubt.

The Guardian - Business

Where is this Muslim world full of doubt as to whether Isis is an enemy?

The Guardian - Opinion

You can be happy one moment and full of doubt and depression the next.

The Guardian - Arts

He added: "I love the Psalms, if you look at Psalm 88, that's full of doubt".

The Guardian

See how I had to take up a position, even though I was full of doubt.

The Guardian - Books

Full of doubt, I mixed raw elbow noodles with a sludge of cottage cheese, milk and grated cheese.

The New York Times - Arts

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

1 human-written examples

On his own, Larry was full of doubts.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing a character's internal state, use "full of doubt" to vividly portray their uncertainty and lack of confidence.

Common error

While "full of doubt" is acceptable, consider more formal alternatives like "uncertain" or "skeptical" in professional or academic writing to maintain a more polished tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "full of doubt" functions primarily as an adjectival phrase, modifying a noun or pronoun to describe a state of uncertainty, hesitation, or lack of conviction. Ludwig confirms its proper usage.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

65%

Arts

15%

Opinion

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

3%

Science

3%

Academia

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "full of doubt" effectively conveys a state of uncertainty or apprehension. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is grammatically correct and widely used. Predominantly found in news and media sources, the phrase is useful in both describing internal states and broader situations marked by a lack of confidence. When aiming for increased formality, consider alternatives like "uncertain" or "skeptical". Remember, while often negative, being "full of doubt" can also foster critical thinking. This analysis provides practical guidance for using the phrase effectively and avoiding potential pitfalls.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

filled with uncertainty

Changes the phrasing from "doubt" to the broader concept of "uncertainty".

unsure of oneself

Highlights a lack of self-confidence and certainty.

having reservations

Indicates a restrained or qualified acceptance due to doubt.

lacking conviction

Indicates a deficiency in firm belief or certainty.

beset by anxieties

Emphasizes the presence of anxieties as a source of doubt.

experiencing apprehension

Focuses on the feeling of unease and anxiety linked to the doubt.

riddled with skepticism

Implies a pervasive and deeply ingrained doubt.

questioning everything

Emphasizes a state of pervasive doubt and critical examination.

wavering in belief

Focuses on the instability of one's beliefs.

in a state of hesitancy

Highlights the indecisiveness and pausing caused by doubt.

FAQs

How can I use "full of doubt" in a sentence?

You can use "full of doubt" to describe a person, situation, or feeling characterized by uncertainty. For example: "She was "full of doubt" about her decision to move overseas."

What's the difference between "full of doubt" and "full of uncertainty"?

While similar, "full of doubt" often suggests a specific questioning of something, whereas "full of uncertainty" implies a more general lack of clarity or predictability.

What can I say instead of "full of doubt" to sound more formal?

In more formal contexts, consider using phrases like "uncertain", "skeptical", or "hesitant" instead of "full of doubt".

Is it always negative to be "full of doubt"?

Not necessarily. Being "full of doubt" can sometimes lead to critical thinking and a more thorough evaluation of a situation, preventing rash decisions.