great doubt

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "great doubt" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to express a significant level of uncertainty or skepticism about a situation or idea. Example: "After reviewing the evidence, I was left with great doubt about the validity of the claims made."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

36 human-written examples

"From a Chicagoan's perspective, there's a great doubt over this," said Dick Simpson, a political scientist.

The New York Times

The outcome of that pressing question is never in any great doubt, of course.

The New York Times

So when he has moments of doubt (great doubt), they are all the more powerful.

The New York Times

These cases, as well as many commentators, [n6] have cast great doubt upon the soundness of Perez.

Cornell University

In prostate screening, a lot of disease is identified, but there is great doubt over the number of lives this saves.

The Economist

We knew we had to put great doubt in their minds, but they came at us so fast we found it difficult to do this.

Independent

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

24 human-written examples

I've struggled for confidence and had great doubts about myself.

The Guardian - TV & Radio

A major philosophical treatise in the Japanese Neo-Confucian tradition, The Record of Great Doubts illuminates a crucial chapter in East Asian intellectual history.

Columbia University

According to Dr. Schleicher, initially, "we had great doubts that it would be possible to develop a test that works across languages and cultures".

The New York Times

"I have great doubts about whether they're sufficient," Stefano Micossi, an economist and the director of Assonime, an Italian business research group, said of the austerity package.

The New York Times

"I had great doubts about Dines's compliance with the producer-only rule," said Ms. Planck, who was director of the Greenmarket for about six months in 2003.

The New York Times - Food

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "great doubt" to convey a significant level of uncertainty or skepticism, especially when questioning the validity or reliability of something. It is appropriate for formal writing and professional communication.

Common error

Avoid using "great doubt" when a milder expression like "some doubt" or "slight uncertainty" would be more accurate. Reserve "great doubt" for situations where the uncertainty is substantial and has significant implications.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "great doubt" functions as a noun phrase that expresses a significant level of uncertainty or skepticism. As supported by Ludwig, it is grammatically correct and appears frequently in varied contexts. It often serves to question the validity or reliability of a claim, idea, or situation.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

53%

Academia

23%

Science

13%

Less common in

Wiki

7%

Formal & Business

3%

Reference

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "great doubt" is a grammatically correct and commonly used phrase that signifies a significant level of uncertainty or skepticism. As shown by Ludwig, it's suitable for formal and neutral contexts, appearing frequently in News & Media, Academia, and Scientific sources. When using the phrase, ensure it accurately reflects a substantial level of uncertainty, and consider alternatives like "considerable uncertainty" or "significant skepticism" to fine-tune your message. Avoid overusing it when a milder expression would be more appropriate. Remember that accurately conveying the degree of uncertainty is crucial for clear and effective communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

considerable uncertainty

Emphasizes the significant extent of uncertainty involved.

significant skepticism

Focuses on the disbelief or lack of conviction regarding something.

serious misgivings

Highlights feelings of apprehension or worry about potential outcomes.

profound reservations

Indicates deep-seated hesitation or unwillingness to accept something.

substantial question

Suggests a significant issue or point that requires further examination.

grave reservations

Highlights the seriousness and significance of one's hesitations or concerns.

deep uncertainty

Focuses on the depth and intensity of the uncertainty involved.

major qualms

Indicates significant feelings of unease or moral objection.

real concerns

Emphasizes that the concerns are genuine and not merely hypothetical.

strong disbelief

Highlights the intensity and firmness of the lack of belief.

FAQs

How can I use "great doubt" in a sentence?

You can use "great doubt" to express a strong feeling of uncertainty. For instance, "There is "great doubt" about the accuracy of the report" or "The expert's testimony cast "great doubt" on the defendant's alibi".

What are some alternatives to the phrase "great doubt"?

Alternatives to "great doubt" include "considerable uncertainty", "significant skepticism", or "serious misgivings". The best choice depends on the specific context.

Is it better to say "great doubt" or "serious doubt"?

Both "great doubt" and "serious doubt" are valid, but "great doubt" implies a slightly higher degree of uncertainty or skepticism. The choice depends on the intensity of the doubt you wish to convey.

What's the difference between "great doubt" and "slight doubt"?

"Great doubt" indicates a significant and impactful level of uncertainty, suggesting a strong reason to question something. "Slight doubt", on the other hand, suggests a minor uncertainty that may not significantly affect one's overall conviction.