put in doubt

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "put in doubt" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when expressing uncertainty or questioning the validity of something. Example: "The recent findings put in doubt the long-held beliefs about the effectiveness of the treatment."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Those plans have been put in doubt.

The New York Times - Sports

His participation in the Travers was put in doubt.

The New York Times

NATO's peacekeeping role has been put in doubt.

The Economist

When oil prices suddenly collapsed in late 2008, future supply gains were put in doubt.

The New York Times

Using less than required amount results in inadequate cooling of the adjoining tank and hence its integrity may be put in doubt.

Journal of Petroleum Science and Engineering

Through this process gaps in habitat coverage are created and the ability of populations in the remaining fragments to maintain themselves is put in doubt.

Ecological Indicators

They put in doubt some initial settlement patterns, some chronocultural hiatuses, based on preconceived models of land use, especially for the First Neolithic and the Protohistoric periods.

Geomorphology

The report says the government's commitment to democracy has been put in doubt.

The Guardian

If these are put in doubt, Europe has the right to state its views".

The New York Times

A new race had been planned for 2012 in Austin, Texas, but it was put in doubt in October.

The New York Times - Sports

I don't expect, frankly speaking, any decisions that will put in doubt our trade turnover or the largest investment projects".

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "put in doubt", ensure that the subject and object are clearly defined to avoid ambiguity. For example, specify what is being doubted and by whom.

Common error

Avoid using "put in doubt" with overly abstract nouns that lack clear referents. For example, instead of saying "This puts in doubt progress", specify what aspect of progress is being questioned to enhance clarity.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "put in doubt" functions as a verb phrase used to indicate uncertainty or to question the validity or reliability of something. As Ludwig AI confirms, this expression is grammatically correct and widely used in various contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

81%

Science

17%

Wiki

2%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "put in doubt" is a grammatically sound and frequently used expression to indicate uncertainty or question the validity of something. According to Ludwig AI, it’s acceptable in written English and suitable for various contexts. With its high frequency in news and media, as seen in The New York Times and The Guardian, this phrase is ideal for expressing skepticism. Consider alternatives like "cast doubt on" or "call into question" for nuanced expression. Remember to maintain clarity by defining both the subject and the object when employing "put in doubt" to avoid ambiguity.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

cast doubt on

Emphasizes the act of raising questions about something's reliability or truth.

call into question

Highlights the act of formally challenging or disputing something.

raise doubts about

Focuses on the act of introducing feelings of uncertainty.

undermine confidence in

Stresses the weakening of trust or belief in something.

throw suspicion on

Implies casting a negative light or distrust on something.

create uncertainty about

Highlights the generation of ambiguity surrounding a topic.

impugn the validity of

Formally challenges the correctness or legitimacy of something.

challenge the credibility of

Directly questions the believability or trustworthiness of something.

make dubious

Emphasizes the creation of a sense of doubt or skepticism.

inject skepticism into

Highlights introducing a questioning attitude towards something.

FAQs

How can I use "put in doubt" in a sentence?

Use "put in doubt" to express that something is uncertain or questionable. For example, "The new evidence "put in doubt" the original findings".

What's a more formal way to say "put in doubt"?

For a more formal tone, consider using phrases like "call into question" or "impugn the validity of".

Is it correct to say "placed in doubt" instead of "put in doubt"?

Yes, "placed in doubt" is a grammatically correct alternative, although ""put in doubt"" is more common.

What's the difference between "put in doubt" and "cast doubt on"?

Both phrases convey uncertainty, but "cast doubt on" often implies a more active or intentional effort to question something, while ""put in doubt"" can be a more passive consequence of new information.