serious qualms

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "serious qualms" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when expressing significant doubts or concerns about a situation or decision. Example: "Despite the potential benefits, I have serious qualms about the ethical implications of this project."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

14 human-written examples

But Senator Carl Levin of Michigan, a Democrat on the Intelligence Committee, said he had serious qualms about Mr. Goss's independence.

The New York Times

Without Shriver's backing, he might never have served two terms in the post, which is ironic as she had serious qualms about him taking up the post.

The Guardian

An overwhelming majority of French Muslims have no serious qualms about legislation that bans religious symbols (whether the veil, the kippa, or a visible cross) from state schools.

The Guardian

Apple's customers do not seem to have serious qualms about the design choices the company has made as they continue to buy iPhones and iPads at a healthy clip.

The New York Times - Tech

Nevertheless, Mr. Horst admitted he felt serious qualms when Mr. Miller first told him about the case and asked if he would drive Ms. Miller and her daughter from the United States into Canada.

The New York Times

While I still have serious qualms about the technology, I have been challenged and emotionally moved enough to take a long-requested meeting with the folks at Amazon and Kindle and listen to their arguments for the machines.

The New Yorker

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

46 human-written examples

Shane added that he had only one serious qualm about the term.That, he said, was expressed by an administration official: "It's not the targeted killings I object to — it's the untargeted killings".

The New York Times

In the second, an agent supports 'Decision 1', but has serious moral qualms about 'Decision 2'.

Bioethics

Delaney's tweets range from the ridiculous to more serious fare, but he had no qualms about getting serious in the interview.

Huffington Post

It seems that Mariah and James don't have these qualms and are ready to get serious and move forward with a shared life together.

Huffington Post

* * * God exists without qualms.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "serious qualms" when you want to convey significant doubts or concerns about something, particularly when those concerns are well-founded and merit attention. For example, "The board expressed serious qualms about the proposed merger."

Common error

While "serious qualms" is a valid phrase, it might sound overly formal in casual conversations. In informal settings, consider using alternatives like "major concerns" or "big doubts" for a more natural tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "serious qualms" functions as a noun phrase where the adjective "serious" modifies the noun "qualms", indicating significant doubts or reservations. Ludwig's examples highlight its use in expressing concerns regarding various issues, from political nominations to design choices.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

75%

Science

17%

Formal & Business

8%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "serious qualms" is a phrase used to express significant doubts or reservations, functioning as a noun phrase where "serious" modifies "qualms". Ludwig AI validates its grammatical correctness and appropriateness in various contexts, primarily within news and media, as well as in scientific discussions. While the phrase is suitable for formal writing, it might be overly formal for casual conversations. Consider alternatives like "major concerns" or "big doubts" in informal settings. The examples provided by Ludwig demonstrate the phrase's use in expressing concerns regarding political decisions, ethical implications, and design choices. The expression is considered correct and usable in written English.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

grave reservations

Emphasizes the weight and importance of the doubts, suggesting a more formal or critical context.

deep misgivings

Highlights the feeling of unease and apprehension associated with the doubts, focusing on the emotional aspect.

profound concerns

Underscores the depth and significance of the worries, suitable for situations where the implications are considerable.

significant reservations

Similar to "serious qualms" but slightly more formal and emphasizes the importance of the doubts.

strong doubts

Direct and straightforward, highlighting the intensity of the uncertainty.

considerable apprehension

Focuses on the anxiety and worry associated with the situation, emphasizing the emotional response.

major reservations

Stresses the extent and scale of the doubts, suitable for contexts where the concerns are substantial.

intense skepticism

Highlights a strong disbelief or distrust, suggesting a questioning attitude towards something.

substantial worries

Emphasizes the amount and importance of the concerns, indicating a notable degree of anxiety.

marked unease

Highlights the noticeable discomfort and anxiety associated with the situation.

FAQs

How can I use "serious qualms" in a sentence?

You can use "serious qualms" to express significant doubts or concerns about something. For example, "The senators expressed "serious qualms" regarding the new legislation".

What are some alternatives to "serious qualms"?

Alternatives to "serious qualms" include "grave reservations", "deep misgivings", or "profound concerns". The best choice depends on the specific context and the nuance you want to convey.

Is it appropriate to use "serious qualms" in formal writing?

Yes, "serious qualms" is suitable for formal writing. It conveys a sense of significant doubt or concern in a professional and appropriate manner. It's commonly used in news articles, academic papers, and business reports.

What's the difference between "serious qualms" and "minor concerns"?

"Serious qualms" indicates significant and potentially impactful doubts, while "minor concerns" suggests less important or consequential worries. The choice between the two depends on the gravity of the issues you are describing.