has strong reservations

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "has strong reservations" is correct and usable in written English.
It is used to express doubt or skepticism about something. For example, "She has strong reservations about the proposed policy change."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

13 human-written examples

It's obvious from his writing that he also has strong reservations about America's role in Afghanistan.

The Guardian

Dr. Lisa C. Capaldini, who runs an AIDS practice in the Castro district, also has strong reservations.

The New York Times

He has strong reservations about military bureaucracy and a contempt for politicians so encompassing as to verge on contempt for the political process itself.

The New York Times - Books

The president of the student union has strong reservations about the cartoons and about the way freedom of speech is being allowed to eclipse all other democratic values.

The Guardian

Throw into the confusion the fact that the army, assured of 38 seats, has strong reservations about Miss Megawati's ability to control her party.In this section Who really runs Pakistan?

The Economist

Even though he represents a district with a significant population of Hispanics, he has strong reservations about providing a path to full citizenship for unauthorized immigrants, a provision that backers of the Senate measure consider a condition of their support.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

47 human-written examples

I have strong reservations about the credibility of the process".

Independent

How many of you out there have strong reservations about the United States Census?

The New York Times

He said he had talked with labor leaders, but still had strong reservations about the bill.

The New York Times

Many of the interwar Tories had strong reservations about his revanchist, racist, imperialist politics.

The Guardian - Books

Mr. Lipnicki, who previously had strong reservations about the project, now wholeheartedly supports it.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "has strong reservations", consider whether a more direct statement of disagreement would be more effective. While reservations imply doubt, a clear objection can sometimes be more impactful.

Common error

Avoid using "has strong reservations" when you actually intend to convey support or endorsement. Reservations indicate doubt, not approval. For example, don't say "He has strong reservations about the project, so he's fully supporting it." Instead, clarify his actual stance.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "has strong reservations" functions as a means to express doubt or disapproval regarding a particular matter. This can involve skepticism towards a plan, a proposal, or an idea. As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase is suitable for use in written English.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

56%

Formal & Business

19%

Science

9%

Less common in

Wiki

6%

Encyclopedias

0%

Academia

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "has strong reservations" is a common and grammatically sound way to express significant doubts or concerns about something. As Ludwig AI confirms, this expression is well-suited for formal and neutral contexts, particularly in news and media, as well as business communications. When using the phrase, it's important to clearly articulate the reasons behind the reservations and to avoid confusing reservations with endorsements. Alternatives such as "harbors serious doubts" or "voices strong objections" can provide nuanced ways to express similar sentiments. With a source quality score of 88 and an expert rating of 4.5, the phrase's consistent usage across authoritative sources supports its reliability and effectiveness.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

harbors serious doubts

Replaces "strong reservations" with a more figurative expression indicating significant uncertainty.

voices strong objections

Highlights the act of expressing disagreement publicly.

is highly dubious

Conveys a sense of disbelief or uncertainty.

expresses considerable skepticism

Emphasizes the expression of doubt rather than the internal feeling of reservation.

is wary of

Implies caution and distrust.

remains unconvinced

Indicates a lack of persuasion or belief.

questions the validity

Focuses on doubting the truth or accuracy of something.

is deeply apprehensive

Shifts the focus to a feeling of anxiety and unease about something.

is not entirely sold on

An informal way of saying someone is not completely convinced.

sees potential pitfalls

Highlights concerns about possible negative consequences.

FAQs

What does it mean to have strong reservations?

To have strong reservations means to have significant doubts or concerns about something. It indicates a lack of full agreement or support.

What can I say instead of "has strong reservations"?

You can use alternatives like "harbors serious doubts", "expresses considerable skepticism", or "voices strong objections" depending on the context.

Is it better to express reservations or offer direct criticism?

The choice depends on the situation. Reservations are suitable when you want to express concerns without outright rejection. Direct criticism is more appropriate when you have clear and strong objections.

How do I effectively communicate strong reservations?

Clearly articulate the reasons behind your reservations. Provide specific examples or evidence to support your concerns, and offer constructive suggestions for improvement.