showing doubt

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "showing doubt" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when you want to indicate that someone is expressing a lack of certainty in their thought or opinion. For example: "John's statement was filled with uncertainty, showing doubt about the outcome of the project."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

2 human-written examples

So when North passed, showing doubt about whether to double or bid a grand slam, South took the plunge.

The New York Times - Arts

Far from showing doubt about his interventionism, however, Blair complained to Bush that his belief the struggle for control of Iraq "will determine the spirit of the future world" was "all getting lost just in Iraq and WMD".

The Guardian

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

58 human-written examples

The committee has found and published e-mails showing doubts within the administration about the wisdom of the loan.

The New York Times

His bid of five no-trump simply showed doubt.

The New York Times - Arts

When neither of these applies, the bid simply shows doubt, and asks partner to select the appropriate strain.

The New York Times - Arts

That is not just because of the stubborn belief that real warriors can't show doubt or weakness.

The New York Times

Dreher tells us, with approval, that the military controls the chaplains and must remove any who show doubt about the war as a danger to "morale".

The New York Times - Magazine

One way to avoid pedagogy is to be human, to show doubt by acknowledging that life brings more questions than answers.

The New Yorker

There have been a couple of noticeable twitches in this however, when Belldandy shows doubt as to her future with Keiichi.

Wikipedia

His worried face shows doubt that the homage will mean victory in the long run, and he is making a gesture to repel bad luck.

Wikipedia

Don't try to force the child into believing in Santa when he or she shows doubt.

WikiHow

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "showing doubt", ensure the context clearly indicates what the subject is doubting. Provide specific details or examples to clarify the nature of the doubt.

Common error

Avoid using "showing doubt" without clearly specifying what the subject is doubting. Vague usage can confuse readers and weaken your message. Always provide context to clarify the object of the doubt.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "showing doubt" functions as a verbal phrase, typically acting as a gerund. It describes the act of exhibiting a lack of certainty or conviction. Ludwig AI confirms that the phrase is grammatically correct and suitable for written English.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Wiki

30%

Science

15%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Academia

5%

Reference

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "showing doubt" is a grammatically sound and versatile expression used to describe the manifestation of uncertainty or skepticism. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and suitability for use in written English. While not exceedingly common, it appears across various contexts, particularly in news and media, wiki articles, and scientific writing. When employing this phrase, clarity and specificity are essential to effectively convey the subject and nature of the doubt being displayed. Alternatives such as "expressing skepticism" or "displaying uncertainty" can be used to subtly shift the emphasis of the statement.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

expressing skepticism

Focuses on the expression of disbelief or questioning.

displaying uncertainty

Highlights the outward manifestation of a lack of confidence.

demonstrating hesitance

Highlights a pause or delay in action due to uncertainty.

conveying reservations

Emphasizes the communication of hesitations or concerns.

revealing misgivings

Focuses on making private doubts or hesitations known.

manifesting apprehension

Indicates the appearance of anxiety or worry.

feeling unsure

Describes an internal state of lacking confidence or certainty.

raising questions

Highlights the act of posing inquiries that imply uncertainty.

harboring suspicions

Implies a degree of distrust or disbelief.

casting aspersions

Suggests a more negative form of doubt, implying criticism.

FAQs

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

You can use "showing doubt" to describe someone expressing uncertainty or skepticism. For instance, "His hesitant tone was "showing doubt" about the proposed plan."

What are some alternatives to "showing doubt"?

Alternatives include "expressing skepticism", "displaying uncertainty", or "conveying reservations", each with slightly different nuances.

Is it better to say "showing doubt" or "expressing doubt"?

Both "showing doubt" and "expressing doubt" are grammatically correct. "Showing doubt" emphasizes the visible manifestation of doubt, while "expressing doubt" focuses on the verbal or explicit communication of it.

What's the difference between "showing doubt" and "suggesting doubt"?

"Showing doubt" implies a more direct or overt display of uncertainty, whereas "suggesting doubt" is more subtle and indirect. Someone "showing doubt" is more openly displaying their lack of confidence, while someone "suggesting doubt" might be doing so through implications or subtle hints.