may have reservations

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "may have reservations" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when expressing uncertainty or doubt about a situation or decision, often implying that someone might have concerns or hesitations. Example: "While the proposal has many merits, some team members may have reservations about its feasibility."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

23 human-written examples

But they may have reservations about being portrayed as future leaders.

The Economist

The majority leader has not briefed the 60-member Senate Democratic caucus on the agreement, and liberals may have reservations.

The New York Times

We will focus on farmer's perspectives towards my proposed experiment and aspects where they may have reservations or objections.

Cornell University

As a senior cleric explains, "We may have reservations about Kabila, but he is the voice of national unity at the moment and that is what counts".

The Economist

So we have already had some tightening of monetary policy, and the Bank of England may have reservations about pushing the pound up further.

Independent

They seem designed to make the exhibition more appealing to the young, but parents may have reservations about the often explicit sex-and-death imagery.

The New York Times - Arts

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

37 human-written examples

She may have had reservations, but she agreed to give his idea serious thought.

The New York Times - Magazine

The Taliban may have had reservations about Mullah Naquib, but in December, when they realized they had to leave the city, they turned to him to make the arrangements.

The New Yorker

Kenny Wayne Shepherd may have had reservations about having a taco contest as his opening act but the casino crowd was all in (hey, Kenny, Major League Eating opened for Styx with the Ben's Chili Bowl Eating Championship and there was no on stage slippage from the Paradise Theater boys).

Huffington Post

Mr Blair may or may not have reservations about constitutional change, but on one thing he seems unshakeable: every dot and comma of Labour's manifesto must be observed.

The Economist

"I can understand why you may well have reservations about both my involvement in Nicaragua policy and even my continued tenure here,O North e-mailed.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "may have reservations", ensure the context clearly indicates who holds the reservations and what those reservations pertain to for clarity.

Common error

Be specific about the subject of the "reservations". Instead of saying "they may have reservations", clarify what the reservations are about to avoid ambiguity.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "may have reservations" functions as a hedge, softening a statement by indicating potential doubt or disagreement. As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase is grammatically correct and commonly used. It expresses that someone possibly holds concerns without stating them definitively.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

58%

Science

25%

Academia

13%

Less common in

Wiki

4%

Formal & Business

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "may have reservations" is a versatile phrase used to express the potential for doubt or concern in a tactful way. As Ludwig AI indicates, it's a grammatically sound and frequently employed expression. Its usage spans various contexts, from News & Media to scientific and academic discussions, indicating its broad applicability. When using this phrase, clarity is key; ensure the context reveals who holds the reservations and the subject of those reservations to prevent ambiguity. By understanding these nuances, you can effectively incorporate "may have reservations" into your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

might harbor doubts

Indicates a potential for underlying uncertainty or skepticism.

could express hesitations

Focuses on the act of voicing concerns or reluctance.

might feel apprehensive

Highlights a sense of anxiety or unease about something.

may nurture concerns

Suggests a gradual development and holding of worries.

could be skeptical

Emphasizes a questioning attitude and disbelief.

might be uneasy

Implies a lack of comfort or peace of mind.

may be wary

Focuses on cautiousness and suspicion.

could have second thoughts

Indicates a reconsideration of a decision with emerging doubts.

might view with suspicion

Highlights a perspective of distrust or wariness.

may consider objections

Focuses on evaluating and taking into account dissenting views.

FAQs

What does "may have reservations" mean?

It means someone might have doubts or concerns about something. It implies a degree of uncertainty or hesitation.

How can I use "may have reservations" in a sentence?

You can use it to express that someone potentially has concerns about a plan, idea, or statement. For instance, "The board "may have reservations" about the proposed budget cuts."

What are some alternatives to "may have reservations"?

You can use alternatives like "might harbor doubts", "could express hesitations", or "might feel apprehensive" depending on the context.

Is "may have reservations" formal or informal?

It's generally considered neutral and appropriate for both formal and informal contexts. However, the specific situation and audience should guide your choice.