generate skepticism

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "generate skepticism" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing the act of creating doubt or uncertainty about a particular idea, claim, or situation. Example: "The new evidence presented in the case is likely to generate skepticism among the jury regarding the defendant's alibi."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

5 human-written examples

He managed to break your heart and generate skepticism about his behavior at the same time".

The New York Times - Arts

While the offers sometimes generate skepticism among the unemployed, many report being pleasantly surprised by the quality of the services and the professionalism of the personnel.

The New York Times

But Watkins continues to generate skepticism among baseball officials and financial people about his ability to buy and operate a team.

The New York Times - Sports

This does not mean that they aim to generate skepticism about science, for instance, advocating the view that science does not aim at or occasionally discover truth because its claims are always provisional.

Evolution: Education and Outreach

Targets, if well crafted, should walk a tightrope: challenging yet feasible, immediate yet not so demanding as to generate skepticism or fatalism in policy makers or advocates, and progressively idealistic without being utopian.

BMC Public Health

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

53 human-written examples

Prevention speaks against tobacco abuse with a single voice, but in many other areas contradictory research findings have generated skepticism and even indifference among the general public for whom recommendations are targeted.

Preventive Medicine

But it has also generated skepticism as to whether Tumblr's popularity can be turned into dollars.

The New York Times - Tech

Despite its attractions for indies, a mode of dress that requires the adroitness of a chess master still generates skepticism.

The New York Times

The more detailed account that Rodriguez provided on Tuesday, at the Yankees' spring training headquarters in Tampa, Fla., immediately generated skepticism from many who were present.

The New York Times - Sports

Never mind that her methods -- which I later learned were temporary, expensive and not covered by insurance -- have generated skepticism among others in medicine.

The New York Times - Style

According to current and former government officials, prurient details in the dossier generated skepticism among some members of the intelligence community, who, as one put it, regarded it as a "nutty" product to present to a President.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "generate skepticism", ensure the context clearly indicates what is causing the doubt. Providing specific details will enhance clarity and credibility.

Common error

Avoid using "generate skepticism" in casual or informal writing. Simpler alternatives like "cause doubt" or "raise questions" may be more appropriate.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "generate skepticism" functions as a verb phrase where "generate" acts as a transitive verb, taking "skepticism" as its direct object. It describes the action of producing or creating a feeling of doubt or disbelief. Ludwig shows examples of its usage in various contexts.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

42%

Science

33%

Encyclopedias

8%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "generate skepticism" is a grammatically correct and usable expression in written English, as confirmed by Ludwig AI. It describes the act of causing or creating doubt. While not overly frequent, it appears in various contexts, primarily in news, media, and scientific writing. For more informal settings, alternatives like "create doubt" or "raise questions" might be more appropriate. It's important to ensure clarity when using this phrase, specifying what exactly is causing the skepticism.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

create doubt

This alternative focuses on the action of producing doubt.

arouse suspicion

This phrase highlights the act of causing a feeling of distrust or doubt.

foster disbelief

This suggests the creation of a state of not believing something.

prompt incredulity

This conveys the idea of causing a feeling of being unable to believe something.

spark cynicism

This alternative emphasizes the creation of a distrustful or pessimistic attitude.

induce wariness

This focuses on causing a state of caution or suspicion.

raise questions

This highlights the act of making people wonder or doubt something.

invite scrutiny

This suggests that something is likely to be examined closely due to doubt.

provoke reservations

This focuses on causing feelings of doubt or uncertainty.

plant seeds of doubt

This phrase uses a metaphor to describe the introduction of doubt.

FAQs

How can I use "generate skepticism" in a sentence?

You can use "generate skepticism" to describe something that causes doubt or disbelief. For example: "The company's vague statements "generate skepticism" among investors".

What are some alternatives to "generate skepticism"?

Some alternatives to "generate skepticism" include "create doubt", "arouse suspicion", or "raise questions".

Is "generate skepticism" formal or informal?

"Generate skepticism" is generally considered a neutral to formal expression, suitable for news, academic writing, and professional contexts. Simpler alternatives may be more appropriate for informal settings.

What's the difference between "generate skepticism" and "cause doubt"?

"Generate skepticism" implies a more active or intentional creation of doubt, whereas "cause doubt" is a more general term for something that leads to uncertainty or disbelief. They are often interchangeable, but the nuance lies in the degree of intentionality.