harbor some reservations

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "harbor some reservations" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when expressing doubts or concerns about a particular situation, decision, or idea. Example: "While I appreciate the proposal, I must admit that I harbor some reservations about its feasibility."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

1 human-written examples

A report from the RAND Corporation last month concluded that, while those at the apex of North Korean society might harbor some reservations about their thirty-three-year-old leader, "the North Korean regime has made every effort to indoctrinate North Korean elites into believing that unification would be disastrous for them".

The New Yorker

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

59 human-written examples

While Ms. White's nomination is expected to receive Senate approval, some Democrats harbor reservations.

The New York Times

A number of donors said they agreed; some continue to harbor reservations about Trump.

Los Angeles Times

But proponents of the rule on garbage disposal harbor few reservations.

The New York Times

Many within the bank still harbor longstanding reservations against aggressive easing, which the departing governor, Masaaki Shirakawa, favored.

The New York Times

But many Democrats and anti-hunger advocates harbor deep reservations about the proposal — even if they have supported employment and training programs in the past.

The Washington Post

Along with many who have worked to build a strong NATO, we harbor grave reservations about the pending expansion and the direction it points.

The New York Times

Surveys indicate that large portions of the public harbor deep reservations about the safety of self-driving technology, so Jaguar Land Rover enlisted the help of cognitive psychologists to unpack "how vehicle behaviour affects human confidence in new technology," the British automaker said in a news release.

The Washington Post

In addition to these confirmed Trump supporters, there are a number of other folks moderate Republicans and Republican-leaning independents, mainly who may harbor serious reservations about Trump personally, but who may also be willing to vote for him to keep Clinton out of the White House.

The New Yorker

I expressed some reservations.

The New Yorker

He rejoined with some reservations.

Independent

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "harbor some reservations", ensure the context clearly indicates what the reservations pertain to. Be specific to avoid ambiguity.

Common error

Avoid using "harbor some reservations" when you actually have strong objections. This phrase implies a mild level of concern, so choose stronger language if needed.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "harbor some reservations" functions as a hedge, softening a potentially critical statement. It indicates a level of concern without expressing outright disapproval. According to Ludwig AI, it is usable in written English.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Science

20%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Academia

5%

Encyclopedias

3%

Wiki

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "harbor some reservations" is a useful and grammatically correct way to express mild doubt or concern. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is appropriate for written English and, as evidenced by the examples, frequently appears in news and media contexts. When using this phrase, it's important to ensure the context clearly defines the source of your reservation and to avoid using it when expressing strong disagreements. Consider alternatives like "have slight doubts" or "express minor concerns" to fine-tune the nuance of your statement.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

have slight doubts

Expresses uncertainty more directly, focusing on the presence of doubt.

express minor concerns

Highlights the act of voicing concerns, emphasizing their relatively small impact.

possess a few misgivings

Uses a more formal tone, denoting a feeling of doubt or apprehension.

hold slight hesitations

Emphasizes a pause or reluctance, focusing on the hesitation felt.

entertain certain qualms

Suggests a deeper level of unease, implying moral or ethical concerns.

feel somewhat apprehensive

Focuses on the emotional state of feeling anxious or fearful about something.

maintain some skepticism

Highlights a questioning attitude, indicating doubt about the truth or validity of something.

nurture mild suspicions

Suggests a gentle or tentative belief that something is wrong or that someone is untrustworthy.

bear limited uncertainties

Implies acceptance of unknowns, framing them within specific confines of scope and influence.

retain a degree of wariness

Highlights a cautious approach, suggesting a need for vigilance and alertness to potential risks.

FAQs

What does it mean to "harbor some reservations"?

To "harbor some reservations" means to have doubts or concerns about something, but not necessarily strong objections. It suggests a mild level of apprehension.

How can I use "harbor some reservations" in a sentence?

You can use it to express doubts about a plan, idea, or decision. For example: "While I appreciate the proposal, I "harbor some reservations" about its feasibility."

What are some alternatives to "harbor some reservations"?

You can use alternatives like "have slight doubts", "express minor concerns", or "possess a few misgivings" depending on the context.

Is it appropriate to use "harbor some reservations" in formal writing?

Yes, "harbor some reservations" is suitable for formal writing, as it is a relatively sophisticated and nuanced way to express doubt or concern without being overly critical.