raises doubts

USAGE SUMMARY

"raises doubts" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
You can use it when expressing uncertainty, or when discussing something that has potential implications or consequences. For example, "The new policy raises doubts about its ability to effectively address the issue."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

It raises doubts".

The New York Times

A "political film" raises doubts.

The New Yorker

A new video raises doubts.

The Washington Post

That raises doubts about its commercial potential.

The New York Times

But the unwieldy size of the database raises doubts.

The New York Times

That raises doubts about Level 3's consistency of purpose.

The Economist

New research raises doubts that investigators found the perpetrator.

The New York Times

But the colorful, sheer fun of the work raises doubts.

The New Yorker

It raises doubts about Mr. Bloomberg's character and judgment.

The New York Times

That raises doubts about the future of bitcoin.

The Guardian - Tech

But it raises doubts about his willingness to take tough, principled decisions if he gets there.

The Economist

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "raises doubts", clearly specify what the doubts are about to avoid ambiguity. For example, instead of saying "The report raises doubts", say "The report raises doubts about the project's feasibility".

Common error

Avoid using "raises doubts" when the evidence strongly disproves something. "Raises doubts" suggests uncertainty, not outright rejection. Choose stronger wording if certainty is warranted.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "raises doubts" functions as a verb phrase. It typically acts as the predicate of a sentence, expressing that something causes uncertainty or skepticism. Ludwig indicates that this phrase is correct and usable in written English.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

53%

Science

38%

Formal & Business

9%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "raises doubts" is a commonly used and grammatically correct phrase employed to express uncertainty or skepticism. Ludwig confirms its validity and provides numerous examples across diverse sources. Its primary function is to question the reliability or validity of something, prompting further investigation. The phrase sees frequent use in news and media, followed by scientific and formal business contexts. While suitable for neutral and professional registers, using the phrase requires clear specification of what is being doubted and avoiding its use when strong disproof exists. Related phrases include "calls into question" and "fosters skepticism about". Overall, "raises doubts" serves as an effective tool for expressing uncertainty in various written and spoken contexts.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

calls into question

Focuses on formally questioning something's validity or reliability, often requiring further examination.

creates reservations concerning

Focuses on establishing concerns or conditions that limit acceptance or belief.

prompts uncertainty regarding

Highlights the effect of causing a state of uncertainty, rather than directly expressing doubt.

engenders suspicion of

Implies a lack of trust or belief in something, often related to potential wrongdoing.

elicits disbelief toward

Highlights the reaction of not being able to accept something as true or valid.

casts aspersions on

This phrase implies a more direct and potentially damaging form of doubt, suggesting a tarnishing of reputation or validity.

instills wariness of

Emphasizes the development of caution or carefulness due to perceived potential problems.

fuels misgivings about

Suggests an increase in pre-existing feelings of doubt or apprehension.

fosters skepticism about

Emphasizes the creation of doubt over time, rather than a one-time raising of concerns.

begets distrust in

Indicates a deeper, more fundamental lack of faith or confidence.

FAQs

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

You can use "raises doubts" to express uncertainty about a claim, plan, or situation. For example: "The company's financial report "raises doubts" about its future profitability."

What are some alternatives to "raises doubts"?

Alternatives to "raises doubts" include "calls into question", "fosters skepticism about", and "prompts uncertainty regarding", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it more appropriate to say "raise doubt" or "raises doubts"?

"Raises doubts" is typically more appropriate because it acknowledges the multifaceted nature of uncertainty. "Raise doubt" is grammatically correct but less common. For example, "The investigation "raises doubts" about the witness's credibility" sounds more natural than "The investigation raise doubt...".

What's the difference between "raises doubts" and "proves false"?

"Raises doubts" suggests uncertainty or questioning, while "proves false" indicates that something has been definitively shown to be incorrect. "Raises doubts" implies further investigation may be needed, whereas "proves false" concludes the matter. For example "The new findings "raises doubts" about the initial hypothesis" / "The experiment "proves false" the long-held belief".