make doubt

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "make doubt" is not grammatically correct.
You could use the phrase "raise doubts" instead. Example: His contradictory statements raised doubts about his credibility.

⚠ May contain grammatical issues

Science

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

1 human-written examples

In fact, for all of these markers, there are not standardized criteria of evaluation that make doubt their real prognostic value.

BioMed Research International

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

58 human-written examples

The ability to think makes doubt and critical evaluation of the environment possible.

Encyclopedia Britannica

The way she spoke about the internet – "making my Facebook" – made doubt grow in my chest.

The Guardian - Books

The miracle is that Mr. Shanley has made "Doubt" go over so well in the theater.

The New York Times

Jason Kidd is talking about the antidote that heals old wounds, rejuvenates the soul and makes doubt disappear.

The New York Times - Sports

Making doubt universal and hyperbolic helps to distinguish genuine unshakability from the mere appearance of it.

SEP

Q: You tell stories in a way that makes doubt seem almost impossible-like the story of Larry and Ramon.

Huffington Post

Doubts about whether they have consciousness do not make us doubt that they see shadows.

SEP

But make no doubt about it: my kid will dance.

Independent

All you do is make me doubt myself.

The New Yorker

It's enough to make one doubt Darwin.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Avoid using the phrase "make doubt". Opt for grammatically correct alternatives like "raise doubts" or "cast doubt" to clearly convey the intention of instilling uncertainty.

Common error

The verb "make" doesn't collocate well with "doubt" in the sense of creating uncertainty. Using "make" suggests constructing or building, which doesn't align with the abstract concept of doubt. Remember to use verbs like "raise", "cast", or "instill" instead.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "make doubt" is grammatically incorrect and does not function as a standard grammatical unit in English. As Ludwig AI points out, it is better to use established phrases such as "raise doubts" or "cast doubt".

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

33%

Science

33%

Encyclopedias

33%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "make doubt" is identified by Ludwig AI as grammatically incorrect. Despite some occurrences in diverse sources such as news media, science, and encyclopedias, it does not conform to standard English grammar. To accurately convey the intention of instilling uncertainty, it's best practice to use alternatives like "raise doubts" or "cast doubt". These alternatives are grammatically sound and widely accepted, ensuring clarity and precision in your writing. While the intended meaning of "make doubt" might be understood, using a correct phrase enhances credibility and avoids potential confusion. The goal is to communicate effectively, and choosing the right words is essential to conveying your intended meaning.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

raise doubts

This alternative focuses on the action of introducing uncertainty or skepticism. It's a direct and grammatically correct substitute.

cast doubt

Similar to "raise doubts", this phrase implies creating uncertainty or questioning the validity of something.

instill uncertainty

This phrase highlights the act of implanting a feeling of doubt or lack of confidence.

create misgivings

This suggests causing feelings of apprehension or unease about something.

sow seeds of doubt

This is a more figurative expression suggesting the gradual introduction of uncertainty. It implies a more subtle and insidious process.

generate suspicion

This alternative focuses on creating a feeling of distrust or wariness.

prompt disbelief

This phrase emphasizes the generation of a feeling of incredulity or lack of faith.

foster skepticism

This alternative emphasizes the promotion of a questioning attitude rather than directly creating doubt.

give rise to skepticism

Similar to "foster skepticism", this emphasizes the emergence of a questioning attitude as a result.

cause one to question

This is a more direct and less idiomatic way of saying that something makes someone doubt.

FAQs

What are some correct ways to express the idea of causing doubt?

Instead of the ungrammatical "make doubt", you can use phrases like "raise doubts", "cast doubt", or "instill uncertainty" to convey the meaning of causing someone to question something.

Is "make doubt" ever grammatically correct?

No, "make doubt" is not considered grammatically correct in standard English. It's better to use established phrases such as "raise doubts" or "cast doubt".

What's a more formal way to say something "makes me doubt"?

For a more formal tone, you could say something "prompts skepticism" or "engenders uncertainty" instead of using "make doubt".

How can I avoid using "make doubt" in my writing?

Always consider the context. If you mean to create uncertainty, use "raise doubts" or "cast doubt". If you mean to feel uncertain, use "doubt myself" or "question my beliefs".