harbouring doubts

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "harbouring doubts" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when expressing uncertainty or skepticism about a situation, decision, or person's intentions. Example: "Despite the team's enthusiasm, she found herself harbouring doubts about the project's feasibility."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

10 human-written examples

Can anyone blame investors and companies for harbouring doubts?

The Guardian

The son of an Anglican clergyman, he was a staunch supporter of the Church of England while still harbouring doubts about the existence of God.

The Guardian - Opinion

Recently, a friend posted on my Facebook timeline a link from a dubious news source intimating Caitlyn Jenner might be harbouring doubts about her transition.

Independent

He also stressed that he agreed with Corbyn on austerity, HS2, Syria, Trident and any number of other issues while harbouring doubts about the party's ability to convince swing voters.

The Guardian

England are still harbouring doubts about Scott Parker's fitness for the European Championship and face entering the tournament with only one fully fit first-choice central midfielder, after Frank Lampard's withdrawal from the squad last night.

Independent

AbbVie, which makes the world's top-selling drug Humira for rheumatoid arthritis, and Shire, known for its hyperactivity treatments, have been in "detailed talks" since the board of Shire decided to back AbbVie's latest offer (its fifth) on Monday, despite harbouring doubts over the tax structure.

The Guardian - Business

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

50 human-written examples

If they harbour doubts, it may matter a lot.

The Guardian - Opinion

They also harboured doubts about his scheme for buying bad debts from troubled banks.

The Economist

And yet others harbour doubts whether Japan can always count on America.

The Economist

Even Andrew Mason, the firm's habitually cheerful boss, seems to harbour doubts.

The Economist

In the SNP's mind no true Scotsman (or woman) can harbour doubts about independence.

The Guardian - Opinion

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "harbouring doubts", ensure the context clearly indicates what the doubts pertain to. Be specific to avoid ambiguity.

Common error

While grammatically correct, "harbouring doubts" can sound overly formal in casual conversation. Opt for simpler alternatives like "having second thoughts" or "feeling unsure" in informal settings.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "harbouring doubts" functions primarily as a verbal phrase that often acts as part of a clause expressing uncertainty or skepticism. It follows a subject and precedes the object of doubt, as seen in the Ludwig examples.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

73%

Science

18%

Encyclopedias

9%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Reference

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "harbouring doubts" is a grammatically sound expression used to convey a sense of uncertainty or skepticism. As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase is correct and usable in written English, particularly in neutral to formal contexts such as news and media, and science. While alternatives like "having reservations" or "feeling uncertain" exist, "harbouring doubts" suggests a deeper, more persistent level of unease. To use it effectively, ensure the context is clear and that the level of formality matches the situation. This phrase is more suitable for expressing complex uncertainties in writing than for casual conversation.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

having reservations

Focuses on the act of holding back complete agreement or acceptance.

feeling uncertain

Emphasizes the emotional aspect of lacking sureness or confidence.

entertaining suspicions

Suggests a more active process of considering something might be wrong.

holding misgivings

Highlights the presence of apprehension or unease.

questioning assumptions

Directly addresses the act of doubting the validity of underlying beliefs.

remaining unconvinced

Indicates a lack of persuasion or acceptance.

skeptical of

Expresses a general attitude of doubt or disbelief.

unsure about

Highlights a lack of certainty regarding something.

apprehensive about

Emphasizes a feeling of anxiety or fear about a future event.

having second thoughts

Indicates a reconsideration and possible change of mind.

FAQs

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

You can use "harbouring doubts" to express uncertainty or skepticism. For example, "Despite the positive reports, she was still harbouring doubts about the project's success."

What are some alternatives to "harbouring doubts"?

You can use alternatives like "having reservations", "feeling uncertain", or "skeptical of" depending on the context.

Is it better to say "harbouring doubts" or "having doubts"?

"Harbouring doubts" implies a more persistent or deeply held sense of uncertainty compared to simply "having doubts". The choice depends on the nuance you want to convey.

What's the difference between "harbouring doubts" and "entertaining suspicions"?

"Harbouring doubts" suggests a general uncertainty, while "entertaining suspicions" implies a more specific and negative belief that something may be wrong or dishonest.