reasonable doubt

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "reasonable doubt" is correct and usable in written English.
It is typically used in legal contexts to refer to the standard of proof required in criminal cases, indicating that if there is any reasonable uncertainty about a defendant's guilt, they should be acquitted. Example: "The jury must find the defendant not guilty if there is reasonable doubt about his involvement in the crime."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

Reasonable doubt?

The Washington Post

More reasonable doubt.

The New Yorker

"He gives you reasonable doubt".

The New York Times

"He created reasonable doubt".

The New York Times

guilt beyond a reasonable doubt.

Cornell University

What does "reasonable doubt" mean?

The Guardian - Opinion

But guilty beyond a reasonable doubt?

The New York Times

"Brian McNamee defines reasonable doubt," Attanasio said.

The New York Times - Sports

"I definitely think there is reasonable doubt.

Independent

"Beyond a reasonable doubt," said a student.

Princeton University

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

1 human-written examples

Time to abolish 'reasonable doubt'?

The Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

In legal writing, always define "reasonable doubt" clearly for the jury to avoid misinterpretations. Tailor the definition to the specific jurisdiction.

Common error

Do not confuse "reasonable doubt" with requiring absolute certainty. The prosecution doesn't need to eliminate every conceivable doubt, only those that are reasonable and based on evidence (or lack thereof).

Linguistic Context

The phrase "reasonable doubt" functions as a noun phrase that identifies a specific legal threshold. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is often part of the standard of proof in criminal trials. The phrase is used to describe the level of certainty required for a conviction.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

52%

Academia

28%

Wiki

7%

Less common in

Science

5%

Encyclopedias

4%

Formal & Business

4%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "reasonable doubt" is a crucial legal concept that represents the standard of proof necessary for a conviction in criminal cases. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and usability. The phrase appears most frequently in News & Media and Academic contexts. The key is that the doubt must be reasonable, based on evidence or lack thereof, and not merely speculative. As highlighted by examples on Ludwig, it serves as a critical element in ensuring fair trials and protecting the rights of the accused. Remember to define "reasonable doubt" clearly and avoid confusing it with absolute certainty.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

lack of certainty

Highlights the absence of definitive proof or conviction.

justifiable uncertainty

Replaces 'doubt' with 'uncertainty' to emphasize the lack of sureness being defensible.

well-founded skepticism

Implies that the doubt is based on solid reasoning or evidence.

credible challenge

Suggests a doubt that presents a noteworthy and believable obstacle.

legitimate question

Shifts from doubt to posing a valid question that needs answering.

genuine misgiving

Emphasizes the sincerity and seriousness of the doubt.

valid concern

Frames the doubt as a worry that is well-founded and worthy of attention.

substantive reservation

Focuses on the significant nature of the hesitation or doubt.

plausible deniability

Indicates a situation where someone can credibly deny knowledge of or responsibility for something.

questionable accuracy

Shifts focus to the reliability of information rather than a direct expression of doubt.

FAQs

How is "reasonable doubt" typically used in legal contexts?

In legal contexts, "reasonable doubt" refers to the standard of proof required to convict a criminal defendant. The prosecution must prove guilt beyond a "reasonable doubt", meaning the evidence is so convincing that no reasonable person would question the defendant's guilt.

What constitutes evidence that creates "reasonable doubt"?

Evidence that creates "reasonable doubt" can include conflicting testimonies, lack of physical evidence, flawed investigation procedures, or any information that suggests the defendant may not be guilty. It doesn't have to prove innocence, just raise a legitimate question about guilt.

Is "reasonable doubt" the same as "any doubt"?

No, "reasonable doubt" is not the same as any doubt. It's a doubt based on reason and common sense arising from the evidence or lack of evidence presented in a case. "Any doubt" would imply that even the slightest, most improbable doubt would prevent a conviction, which is not the legal standard.

What's the difference between "beyond a reasonable doubt" and "preponderance of the evidence"?

"Beyond a "reasonable doubt"" is the standard used in criminal cases, requiring a very high degree of certainty. "Preponderance of the evidence" is used in civil cases and means that it's more likely than not that something occurred. It's a much lower standard of proof.