sense of doubt

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "sense of doubt" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when expressing feelings of uncertainty or skepticism about a situation or decision. Example: "Despite the evidence presented, I couldn't shake the sense of doubt that lingered in my mind."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

39 human-written examples

But there was no simple ending; a sense of doubt lingered.

The New Yorker

Despite its early denials, Rockstar has only added to the sense of doubt in recent years.

The New Yorker

Still, even these high-end restaurants must overcome a sense of doubt about wine.

The New York Times - Food

What is lacking is Magritte's sense of doubt opening up to wonder, and wonder opening up to doubt.

Independent

But as soon as I was finished, the audience started asking questions, and I began to feel a creeping sense of doubt about my performance.

The New York Times

He has not yet announced whether he will run for a second term and a sense of doubt and distrust is growing on the broader left.

The Guardian

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

20 human-written examples

Johnson is a genuine Eurosceptic in the proper sense of doubting the benefits of EU membership, but he has never been a Better Off Outer.

Independent

While those of a certain age will fondly recall the Britpop summer of "Roll With It" vs. "Country House" and the sight of John Major struggling to retain control of the Tory Party, for me the sunny season of 1995 will forever be associated with hidden wires, fictional dossiers and nagging senses of doubt, hypocrisy, paranoia and loathing.

Vice

Everyone, it seems, has reason to feel guilty about the demise of a character whose comatose condition Farhadi likens to "a sense of uncertainty", a "notion of doubt" upon which the entire film is built.

The Guardian - Film

Has there ever been a piece of popular theatre with such a sense of existential doubt?

The Guardian

He says his illness has heightened an inner sense of private doubt, confiding, "I'm less confident about public speaking.

The Guardian - Books

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "sense of doubt" to precisely convey a feeling of uncertainty or skepticism. It's effective when describing internal feelings or a general atmosphere of uncertainty.

Common error

Avoid using "sense of doubt" in situations requiring stronger, more descriptive language for intense emotions. Consider using more impactful words like "fear", "dread", or "terror" to convey stronger feelings.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "sense of doubt" functions primarily as a noun phrase, typically serving as the subject or object of a sentence. It describes a state or feeling of uncertainty or skepticism. Examples from Ludwig illustrate its use in expressing lingering reservations or general atmospheres of uncertainty.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

88%

Wiki

5%

Science

3%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Academia

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "sense of doubt" is a common and grammatically sound way to express uncertainty or skepticism. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and usability, highlighting its frequent appearance in news and media. Alternatives like "feeling of uncertainty" or "reservations" can offer nuanced variations. When writing, use "sense of doubt" to convey a subtle, intuitive feeling of uncertainty, and avoid overusing it in contexts requiring stronger emotional language. Understanding these nuances helps writers effectively communicate states of uncertainty in various contexts.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

feeling of uncertainty

This alternative focuses on the emotional experience of not being sure about something.

feeling of skepticism

This emphasizes a questioning or disbelieving attitude.

suspicion

This highlights a feeling of mistrust or disbelief, often directed towards someone or something specific.

lack of conviction

Focuses on the absence of strong belief or certainty.

reservations

Indicates unease or hesitations about a plan or idea.

apprehension

Focuses on anxiety or fear about something that might happen.

unease

Suggests a general feeling of discomfort or anxiety.

disquiet

Similar to unease, but implies a deeper level of disturbance.

misgivings

Emphasizes a feeling of apprehension or doubt about the outcome of something.

worry

Highlights a state of anxiety and concern.

FAQs

How can I use "sense of doubt" in a sentence?

You can use "sense of doubt" to express uncertainty or skepticism. For example: "Despite the evidence, a "sense of doubt" lingered in her mind" or "A "sense of doubt" hung over the project after the initial setbacks".

What's a good substitute for "sense of doubt"?

Alternatives include "feeling of uncertainty", "feeling of skepticism", or "reservations", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is "sense of doubt" formal or informal?

"Sense of doubt" is suitable for both formal and informal contexts. Its usage is common in news articles, academic papers, and everyday conversation.

What is the difference between "sense of doubt" and "feeling of doubt"?

While similar, "sense of doubt" implies a more intuitive or subtle feeling, whereas "feeling of doubt" can refer to a more pronounced or conscious awareness of uncertainty.