kernel of doubt

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "kernel of doubt" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a small but significant uncertainty or skepticism about something. Example: "Despite the overwhelming evidence, there remained a kernel of doubt in her mind about the project's success."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

4 human-written examples

But there was that kernel of doubt.

The Guardian - Sport

Provocative questions are posed, objected to, then quickly withdrawn, their purpose of planting a kernel of doubt or bit of inadmissible evidence having been slyly achieved.

The New York Times

American Pharoah is racing against expectations and that kernel of doubt that gets inside your head: Is a Triple Crown even possible anymore?

Los Angeles Times

For example, if you hold your arms up in the air, the kicker will perceive you as larger and the goal smaller, which will plant a kernel of doubt in his mind about the ability to make the goal.[16].[16]

WikiHow

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

56 human-written examples

A moment of doubt.

The New York Times

Climate of Doubt?

The New York Times - Magazine

"I kind of doubt it".

The New York Times

Strategy used: Seed of Doubt.

The New Yorker

Merchants of Doubt.

Los Angeles Times

Without a shadow of doubt.

BMC Nursing

In case of doubt, a second (I.v.B).

BMC Public Health

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "kernel of doubt" to subtly introduce uncertainty without explicitly stating disbelief. This allows you to plant an idea in the reader's mind without being overly assertive.

Common error

Avoid using "kernel of doubt" too frequently within a single piece of writing. Overuse can dilute its impact and make your writing sound repetitive. Vary your language to maintain reader engagement.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "kernel of doubt" functions as a noun phrase. It typically serves as the object of a verb or preposition, indicating a small but impactful amount of uncertainty. As illustrated by Ludwig, it suggests a subtle element of skepticism within a larger context of belief or acceptance.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

75%

Wiki

25%

Science

0%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "kernel of doubt" is a noun phrase used to indicate a small but significant amount of uncertainty or skepticism. Grammatically correct and versatile, it's suitable for various writing contexts, as confirmed by Ludwig. While relatively rare, its usage is primarily observed in news and media sources. As suggested by Ludwig's AI, related phrases include "seed of uncertainty" and "grain of skepticism", offering nuanced alternatives. Effective writing involves strategic placement of "kernel of doubt" to subtly introduce uncertainty without sounding repetitive. In essence, this phrase serves as a valuable tool for expressing measured skepticism.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

seed of uncertainty

Replaces "doubt" with "uncertainty", focusing on the lack of sureness.

grain of skepticism

Uses "skepticism" instead of "doubt", highlighting a questioning attitude.

hint of suspicion

Suggests a slight feeling that something is wrong or not as it seems.

trace of disbelief

Emphasizes the lack of belief in something, implying doubt.

element of uncertainty

Highlights that uncertainty is one component in a more complex situation.

flicker of hesitation

Focuses on a brief pause or reluctance, indicating underlying doubt.

shadow of misgiving

Suggests a feeling of apprehension or unease.

iota of distrust

Indicates a very small amount of lack of trust.

whisper of uncertainty

Implies a subtle and barely noticeable doubt.

tinge of dubiousness

Adds a slight coloring of doubt or skepticism.

FAQs

How can I use "kernel of doubt" in a sentence?

You can use "kernel of doubt" to express a small amount of uncertainty or skepticism. For example: "Despite the evidence, a "kernel of doubt" remained in his mind."

What's a good alternative to "kernel of doubt"?

Alternatives include "seed of uncertainty", "grain of skepticism", or "hint of suspicion", depending on the specific nuance you wish to convey.

Is "kernel of doubt" formal or informal?

"Kernel of doubt" is suitable for both formal and informal writing. Its appropriateness depends more on the context of the writing than the setting.

What does "kernel of doubt" mean?

The phrase "kernel of doubt" refers to a small but significant amount of uncertainty or skepticism that remains even when other factors suggest certainty or belief.