nagging suspicion

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "nagging suspicion" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when you want to express a feeling of unease or worry that does not have a clear source. For example, "I had a nagging suspicion that something was wrong, but I couldn't figure out what it was."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

What I've found from all the interviews I've done in the last 10 years is that whatever nagging suspicion you have during the interview process about their behavior will be magnified 10 times after you hire them.

The New York Times

I always get the nagging suspicion people are going to look back at my generation and say, "Wow.

Huffington Post

I was no longer going to be able to ignore that nagging suspicion that something was going on with my body.

Huffington Post

That nagging suspicion the grass might be greener on the other side of the fence marking the boundaries of corporate life.

Independent

A nagging suspicion of Muslims.

The New York Times

Looking at Beuys, there's the nagging suspicion that one never really touches bottom.

The Guardian

Mr. Cartwright sometimes has a nagging suspicion that the off-season slowdown won't lift.

The New York Times

The nagging suspicion emerges, however, that the overdetermined "7th Monarch" is a frustrated screenplay trying to pass as theatrical material.

The New York Times

Your readers will be naturally left with the nagging suspicion that there can be no smoke without fire.

The Economist

You leave Mr. Mendes's production with a nagging suspicion that the "dancing measures" may not last long.

The New York Times

I also have a nagging suspicion that we'll never really make it all the way to Never-Lost Land. Never-Lost Land

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When aiming for clarity, follow "nagging suspicion" with a 'that' clause specifying the object of suspicion (e.g., "a nagging suspicion that something was amiss").

Common error

While "nagging suspicion" is appropriate in many contexts, avoid overusing it in highly formal or academic writing. Opt for more neutral terms like 'concern' or 'doubt' to maintain a professional tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "nagging suspicion" functions primarily as a noun phrase. It typically acts as the subject or object of a sentence, expressing a persistent feeling of unease or distrust. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is a correct and usable phrase. Examples in Ludwig show it describing feelings about situations, people, or future outcomes.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Science

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "nagging suspicion" is a common and grammatically correct way to express a persistent feeling of unease or distrust. According to Ludwig AI, it is perfectly suitable for use in written English. As evidenced by the numerous examples primarily sourced from News & Media outlets, "nagging suspicion" effectively conveys a sense of lingering doubt or worry, often prompting further scrutiny or caution. While generally neutral in tone, the adjective "nagging" adds a slightly informal touch. For more formal contexts, consider alternatives such as "lingering doubt" or "persistent concern". When using "nagging suspicion", ensure clarity by specifying the object of suspicion, and avoid overuse in overly formal settings.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

nagging doubt

Focuses on the uncertainty and lack of conviction, similar to "nagging suspicion" but without the implication of mistrust.

lingering doubt

Shifts the focus from suspicion to a general feeling of uncertainty that persists over time.

persistent misgiving

Highlights a feeling of apprehension or doubt that is difficult to dismiss.

unsettling feeling

Focuses on the disturbing or disquieting nature of the emotion.

creeping unease

Emphasizes a gradual increase in discomfort or anxiety, rather than a specific suspicion.

residual mistrust

Emphasizes the remaining lack of trust after an event or situation.

gnawing feeling

Conveys a sense of constant, internal discomfort related to an unconfirmed worry.

lingering apprehension

Highlights the feeling of anxiety about a future event or possibility, rather than a suspicion about something present.

lurking concern

Suggests that the concern is hidden or not immediately apparent, but still present.

subtle concern

Indicates a less intense, more understated level of worry about something.

FAQs

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

You can use "nagging suspicion" to express a feeling of unease or distrust that keeps bothering you, even if you don't have proof. For example, "I had a nagging suspicion that he wasn't telling the truth".

What are some alternatives to "nagging suspicion"?

Alternatives to "nagging suspicion" include "lingering doubt", "persistent misgiving", or "creeping unease", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it correct to say "I have a nagging suspicion about something?"

Yes, it is correct to say "I have a nagging suspicion about something". It's a common and accepted way to express that you feel uneasy or distrustful about a particular situation or person.

What's the difference between "nagging suspicion" and "nagging doubt"?

"Nagging suspicion" implies a feeling of distrust or disbelief, while "nagging doubt" suggests uncertainty or lack of confidence. Suspicion is directed towards someone's actions or intentions, whereas doubt is more general.