severe doubt

USAGE SUMMARY

"severe doubt" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
It is typically used to express strong uncertainty or a lack of confidence in something. For example, "I had severe doubts that I would be accepted into the program."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

20 human-written examples

Mortality among those receiving bolus fluids was higher than those receiving maintenance fluids but the data are compatible with an effect ranging from a small potential benefit of bolus to very substantial harm, which raises severe doubt about the use of boluses even in this more severely ill group.

BMJ Open

Forensic investigation cast severe doubt on the authenticity of the documents.

The New York Times

Nearly every Muslim country has experienced the kind of social stress that generates severe doubt, discontent and despair.

The Economist

He is in severe doubt for the Storm's first final though, rated as no better than a 50-50 shof of turning out.

The Guardian - Sport

The Australian captain hasn't trained since touching down in Abu Dhabi on Saturday, and is in severe doubt for the match.

The Guardian - Sport

The old idea that people should be drinking litres of water a day, apart from their regular food, was put in severe doubt a year or two ago.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

38 human-written examples

On both questions I have severe doubts.

The Guardian - Opinion

I had my severe doubts it would work".

The New York Times

All six expressed severe doubts that repeal would ever take effect.

The New York Times

Many peers have already expressed severe doubts about the extent of the cuts proposed, however.

The Guardian

"There were some severe doubts that we could execute what we promised".

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "severe doubt" to express a strong level of uncertainty or disbelief. It's suitable when you want to convey a significant lack of confidence in something.

Common error

Avoid using "severe doubt" in contexts where a milder expression of uncertainty would suffice. Overusing it can make your writing sound overly dramatic or hyperbolic. Consider alternatives like "some doubt" or "slight reservations" when appropriate.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "severe doubt" functions primarily as a noun phrase, often serving as the object of a verb or following a preposition. It conveys a strong sense of uncertainty or disbelief. Ludwig AI confirms that it is a correct and usable phrase.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

75%

Science

15%

Formal & Business

5%

Less common in

Academia

2%

Encyclopedias

1%

Wiki

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "severe doubt" is a grammatically correct and commonly used noun phrase that expresses a strong feeling of uncertainty or disbelief. Ludwig AI confirms its validity. It's most frequently found in News & Media and Science contexts. When writing, use it to convey a significant lack of confidence, but be mindful of overusing it, as milder expressions may sometimes be more appropriate. Alternatives like "serious reservations" or "grave misgivings" can be considered for nuanced expression. Its function is to indicate uncertainty or disbelief and the register is typically neutral.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

serious reservations

Focuses on holding back approval or acceptance due to concerns.

grave misgivings

Emphasizes a deep sense of unease and apprehension.

profound skepticism

Highlights a deeply ingrained tendency to question or disbelieve.

considerable uncertainty

Stresses the lack of sureness or definiteness.

significant questions

Suggests important issues remain unresolved or unaddressed.

nagging concerns

Implies persistent worries or doubts that are difficult to dismiss.

lingering disbelief

Highlights a continued inability to accept something as true or valid.

deep suspicion

Focuses on a strong feeling of distrust or doubt about someone or something.

substantial qualms

Emphasizes moral or ethical reservations.

genuine apprehension

Stresses a feeling of anxiety or fear about what might happen.

FAQs

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

You can use "severe doubt" to express a strong feeling of uncertainty. For example, "I have "severe doubt" that the project will be completed on time."

What can I say instead of "severe doubt"?

You can use alternatives like "serious reservations", "grave misgivings", or "profound skepticism" depending on the context.

Is it better to say "severe doubt" or "strong doubt"?

Both "severe doubt" and "strong doubt" are acceptable, but "severe doubt" typically conveys a higher degree of uncertainty or disbelief. The choice depends on the specific nuance you want to express.

What's the difference between "severe doubt" and "slight hesitation"?

"Severe doubt" indicates a significant lack of confidence, while "slight hesitation" suggests a minor pause or reluctance. The former is much stronger in its expression of uncertainty.