nagging doubts

USAGE SUMMARY

"nagging doubts" is correct and usable in written English. You can use it when expressing persistent uncertainties or concerns about something. Example: "Despite the positive feedback, I still had nagging doubts about my presentation." Alternative expressions include "lingering doubts" and "persistent doubts."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

56 human-written examples

Yet Mr. Kushner began having nagging doubts.

The New York Times

Perhaps there were nagging doubts, too.

The New York Times

But there have always been nagging doubts.

The New York Times - Science

Today both elements are subject to nagging doubts.

The New York Times

That familiarity is important, because it removes nagging doubts.

The Guardian - Sport

At times, Arsenal have been unplayable this season, but nagging doubts over the side's durability remain.

Independent

The lack of progress, though, has left analysts with nagging doubts.

The Guardian - Business

Some employees have nagging doubts about whether the pain of saving United is being evenly spread.

The New York Times

But there have been nagging doubts about whether the plan is working.

The New York Times

Contrast this to the Republican camp, where nagging doubts have been transformed into nightly cold sweats.

The Guardian - Opinion

Despite nagging doubts, when he asked her to move in with him, she agreed.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "nagging doubts" to convey persistent uncertainties that affect decision-making or peace of mind. It's particularly effective when describing internal conflicts or anxieties that are difficult to dismiss.

Common error

While "nagging doubts" is appropriate in many contexts, overuse in formal writing can make the tone seem less objective. Opt for more neutral alternatives like "lingering concerns" or "persistent reservations" to maintain a professional tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "nagging doubts" functions as a noun phrase, where "nagging" modifies "doubts". Ludwig AI confirms its correct usage. It describes recurring or persistent feelings of uncertainty or unease.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

75%

Science

12%

Formal & Business

5%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "nagging doubts" is a commonly used and grammatically correct expression that effectively conveys persistent feelings of uncertainty or unease. As Ludwig AI indicates, its frequent appearance in reputable sources like The New York Times, The Guardian, and The Economist underscores its validity. While suitable for various contexts, from news reporting to personal reflections, it's important to consider the tone and formality of your writing and choose more neutral alternatives, such as "lingering concerns", in highly formal settings. Understanding the subtle nuances between "nagging doubts" and similar phrases like "nagging suspicions" can further refine your writing and ensure accurate expression of intended meaning.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

lingering concerns

Emphasizes the persistence and troubling nature of the worries.

persistent reservations

Highlights a continued feeling of unease or skepticism.

remaining misgivings

Focuses on the presence of unresolved feelings of apprehension.

unsettled anxieties

Highlights the feeling of restlessness and worry caused by uncertainty.

troubling uncertainties

Underscores the disruptive or disturbing nature of the unknowns.

recurring worries

Emphasizes the repetitive nature of the concerns.

nagging suspicions

Shifts the focus slightly to a feeling of distrust or uncertainty about someone's actions.

lingering skepticism

Focuses on a lingering feeling of disbelief or questioning.

persistent unease

Highlights the continuous feeling of discomfort or anxiety.

lingering hesitations

Suggests a lingering reluctance or unwillingness to proceed.

FAQs

How can I use "nagging doubts" in a sentence?

You can use "nagging doubts" to describe persistent feelings of uncertainty or anxiety. For example, "Despite the positive reviews, I still had "nagging doubts" about the project's success."

What phrases are similar to "nagging doubts"?

Similar phrases include "lingering concerns", "persistent reservations", and "unsettled anxieties", all of which convey a sense of unease or uncertainty.

Is it ever incorrect to use the phrase "nagging doubts"?

While grammatically correct, "nagging doubts" might not be suitable for highly formal or technical writing. In such contexts, consider using more neutral alternatives such as "lingering questions" or "remaining uncertainties".

What's the difference between "nagging doubts" and "lingering suspicions"?

"Nagging doubts" generally refer to uncertainties or anxieties, whereas "nagging suspicions" suggest a feeling of distrust or belief that something is wrong or dishonest. The former relates to general unease, while the latter is more focused on specific distrust.