harbor doubts

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "harbor doubts" is correct and commonly used in written English.
It means to have doubts or uncertainties about something. It can be used in a variety of contexts, such as in literature, journalism, and everyday conversation. Example: After his explanation, she still harbored doubts about his involvement in the incident.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

38 human-written examples

Still, I used to harbor doubts about "2001".

The New York Times

Women may harbor doubts about his character's character.

The New York Times

Those pathways exist because millions of voters still harbor doubts about Mitt Romney.

The New York Times

But he also said people did harbor doubts about Mr. Scarcella.

The New York Times

Even so, at least a few senior Afghan officials harbor doubts about his well-being.

The New Yorker

All-wheel drive, paired only with the automatic, is available for those who harbor doubts about rear-drive in winter.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

19 human-written examples

As September's parliamentary elections suggested, many Afghans are so disillusioned with the government that they harbor doubt that even the idea of a government — any government — is worth supporting.

The New York Times

Mr. Perez also harbored doubts.

The New York Times

For harboring doubts about her innocence.

The New Yorker

Polls showed that many Egyptians harbored doubts about him.

The New York Times

But still Britain, whose sailors introduced the ball to Brazil, harbors doubts.

The New York Times - Sports

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "harbor doubts", ensure the context clearly indicates the subject or object of the doubt. For example, "She harbored doubts about his honesty" is more informative than "She harbored doubts."

Common error

Avoid vague phrasing that doesn't specify who or what is doing the "harboring". For instance, instead of saying "Doubts were harbored", specify who harbored them to provide clarity and avoid passive voice.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "harbor doubts" functions as a verb phrase, typically used to describe a state of mind or feeling related to uncertainty or skepticism. As supported by Ludwig, the phrase is frequently used to depict a sense of hidden or unexpressed doubt.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

75%

Science

10%

Formal & Business

8%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

2%

Wiki

3%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "harbor doubts" is a common and correct way to express a feeling of uncertainty or skepticism. According to Ludwig, its use is frequently observed in news and media, science, and formal business contexts. While grammatical errors are rare, clarity is key when using the phrase. The semantic meaning of "harbor doubts" suggests a hidden or persistent feeling. Therefore, it's slightly less general than to "have doubts". To add variety to your writing, you may consider alternatives such as "have reservations", "entertain skepticism", or "nurture misgivings".

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

have reservations

Focuses on having specific hesitations or objections.

hold reservations

Similar to 'have reservations' but with a slightly more formal tone.

remain unconvinced

Emphasizes a lack of persuasion or belief.

entertain skepticism

Implies considering or holding a general attitude of doubt.

nurture misgivings

Suggests a lingering sense of unease or apprehension.

feel apprehensive

Highlights a sense of anxiety or concern.

question the validity

Directly challenges the truth or accuracy of something.

maintain a skeptical outlook

Indicates a consistent tendency to doubt or question.

possess uncertainties

Highlights having vague or unspecified doubts.

be suspicious of

Implies distrust or a belief that something is wrong.

FAQs

What does it mean to "harbor doubts"?

To "harbor doubts" means to secretly or inwardly hold feelings of uncertainty, mistrust, or disbelief about something or someone.

How can I use "harbor doubts" in a sentence?

You can use "harbor doubts" to express that someone is secretly feeling uncertain. For example, "Despite his reassurances, I still "harbor doubts" about his intentions."

What are some alternatives to saying "harbor doubts"?

Alternatives to "harbor doubts" include "have reservations", "entertain skepticism", or "nurture misgivings" depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it more common to "harbor doubts" or "have doubts"?

"Have doubts" is a more common and general expression. "Harbor doubts" suggests a more concealed or persistent feeling of uncertainty. If you have reservations, "have doubts". If those doubts are hidden, "harbor doubts".