having some reservations

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "having some reservations" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when expressing doubts or concerns about a situation or decision. Example: "I appreciate the offer, but I must admit I am having some reservations about the project's feasibility."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

6 human-written examples

Speaking at a lunch, Stoll admitted to having some reservations, mostly concerning showing off his body for the world to see.

The Guardian - Film

Seemingly, most Americans agree with Republican Senator Mark Kirk, of Illinois, who told the Times that, despite having some reservations, "I think it's the right thing to do to take these guys out".

The New Yorker

The White House previously expressed concern about certain provisions in the bill, but the White House press secretary, Dana Perino, said that Mr. Bush would sign it despite having some reservations.

The New York Times

But we must admit to having some reservations about the lenghts to which unostentation can go when, the other Sunday, we read in the Times Magazine an article on Robert Shriver, Jr., entitled "Peace Corpsman No. 1-A Progress Report:" "In Apr.

The New Yorker

LONDON -- If you're about to venture across the Atlantic for business, you'd be forgiven for having some reservations.

Forbes

In agreeing with McLeod and Baylis about patients' needs for time, reflection and distance, but in having some reservations about freezing as a means to that end, we have the following suggestions to make.

Bioethics

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

54 human-written examples

Initially, Pascucci had some reservations.

The New York Times - Sports

Democrats may have some reservations, though.

The Economist

I do, however, have some reservations.

The New York Times

Initially, Lewis said he had some reservations.

The New York Times - Sports

Though he did have some reservations.

The New York Times - Magazine

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "having some reservations", ensure that the context clearly indicates the subject or decision about which you have doubts. For example, "I'm having some reservations about the proposed budget cuts."

Common error

Avoid using "having some reservations" when you actually strongly oppose something. This phrase implies mild hesitation, not firm disagreement.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "having some reservations" functions as a hedge, softening a statement of disagreement or concern. Ludwig examples show its use across various contexts to express a degree of hesitation or doubt without outright rejection. The AI confirms the correctness and usability of this English phrase.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

83%

Science

17%

Formal & Business

0%

Less common in

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "having some reservations" is a correct and usable English expression indicating a degree of doubt or hesitation. Ludwig AI confirms its validity, with examples showing its usage across news, media, and scientific contexts. While grammatically sound and widely understood, it's important to use it appropriately to convey mild hesitation rather than strong opposition. Alternatives like "harboring doubts" or "expressing concerns" can provide nuanced variations in meaning. In short, "having some reservations" is a versatile phrase for expressing qualified agreement or polite disagreement.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

having second thoughts

Implies reconsideration and potential regret or change of mind.

possessing misgivings

A more formal way of saying having doubts or hesitations.

harboring doubts

Focuses on the internal experience of uncertainty, suggesting deeper misgivings.

experiencing qualms

Suggests moral or ethical concerns that cause hesitation.

expressing concerns

Highlights the act of voicing worries, implying a more active communication of doubts.

feeling apprehensive

Emphasizes the emotional aspect of unease or anxiety about something.

not entirely convinced

Expresses a lack of complete agreement or belief.

remaining skeptical

Indicates a questioning attitude and a lack of full conviction.

holding back due to uncertainty

Specifies that hesitation leads to inaction or restraint.

being unsure

A simpler way to express uncertainty or lack of confidence.

FAQs

What does "having some reservations" mean?

It means to have doubts or hesitations about something. It suggests a lack of complete agreement or comfort with a particular situation or decision.

What can I say instead of "having some reservations"?

You can use alternatives like "harboring doubts", "expressing concerns", or "having second thoughts" depending on the context.

How formal is the phrase "having some reservations"?

The phrase is generally considered neutral in formality and can be used in both professional and informal contexts.

Is it correct to say "having a reservation" instead of "having some reservations"?

The phrase "having a reservation" usually refers to booking a table or room. If you want to express doubt, "having some reservations" is the correct phrase.