significant doubts about

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "significant doubts about" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when expressing uncertainty or skepticism regarding a particular issue or statement. Example: "The committee expressed significant doubts about the feasibility of the proposed project."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

40 human-written examples

General McCaffrey harbored significant doubts about the invasion plan.

The New York Times

"Each one of them is raising significant doubts about the viability of the other's candidacy.

The New York Times

But he would not opine on "whether it rises to criminality," though he noted others have "significant doubts" about that.

The Washington Post

An expensive contract was awarded to the contractors, Bouygues, although there were significant doubts about the project.

The Guardian - Opinion

The main issue is whether Rice knew that U.S. intelligence agencies had significant doubts about a claim made by British intelligence that Iraq was seeking uranium in Africa.

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

Four months into his tenure as director of homeland security, Tom Ridge is facing significant doubts about his authority and ability to do his job.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

20 human-written examples

There is still significant doubt about Mateen's sexuality.

The Guardian

As a consequence, there is significant doubt about the effectiveness of the whistleblower law to protect health and care workers on Nauru and in PNG.

The Guardian - Opinion

But an investigation by Guardian Australia uncovered significant doubt about whether he had been convicted of those charges in a mass trial in Egypt in 1999.

The Guardian

Supporters of these policies frequently gloss over gaping holes in the data -- holes that leave significant doubt about whether these policies decrease AIDS transmission.

The New York Times

These results validate the suspected flexibility of the central loop, but raise significant doubt about its direct functional role in GS catalysis via conformational switching, including the proposed regulation of GS via ADP-ribosylation within this loop.

Archives of Biochemistry and Biophysics

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "significant doubts about", clearly specify the object or idea that is being doubted to avoid ambiguity.

Common error

Avoid using "significant doubts about" without providing concrete reasons or evidence to support the skepticism. Unsupported claims can undermine credibility.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "significant doubts about" functions as an evaluative expression, primarily used to convey skepticism or uncertainty concerning a particular subject or proposition. It modifies the noun that follows 'about,' indicating the degree of uncertainty.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

62%

Science

15%

Academia

15%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

4%

Formal & Business

2%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "significant doubts about" is a grammatically sound and usable expression for conveying skepticism or uncertainty. As Ludwig AI confirms, this phrase is suitable for expressing disagreement in various contexts. While predominantly found in news and media, it also appears in academic and scientific discourse. Remember to provide context when using this phrase to ensure clarity. Consider alternatives like "serious reservations regarding" for a more formal tone. Be mindful not to use "significant doubts about" without supporting evidence to maintain credibility.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

serious reservations regarding

Emphasizes a more formal and cautious tone compared to "significant doubts about".

considerable skepticism concerning

Highlights disbelief or lack of conviction about something.

grave misgivings about

Conveys a stronger sense of unease or worry.

substantial uncertainties surrounding

Focuses on the lack of clarity or predictability of a situation.

nagging concerns regarding

Suggests persistent and bothersome worries.

profound questions about

Indicates deeper, more fundamental inquiries or challenges.

lingering apprehensions about

Implies that anxieties or fears remain present over time.

mounting unease over

Highlights a growing sense of discomfort or anxiety.

rising disquiet about

Similar to 'mounting unease', suggesting increasing disturbance.

deep-seated qualms regarding

Conveys deeply rooted reservations or hesitations.

FAQs

How can I use "significant doubts about" in a sentence?

Use "significant doubts about" to express uncertainty regarding a topic. For example, "Experts expressed significant doubts about the project's feasibility."

What's a more formal alternative to "significant doubts about"?

A more formal alternative would be "serious reservations regarding". This phrase adds a tone of caution and formality.

Is it correct to say "significant doubt about" instead of "significant doubts about"?

While "doubt" can be uncountable, in the context of expressing multiple concerns, "doubts" is more appropriate. Using the plural form emphasizes the presence of numerous reservations.

What is the difference between "significant doubts about" and "concerns about"?

"Significant doubts about" implies a stronger level of skepticism than simply having "concerns about". Doubts suggest a fundamental questioning, while concerns may refer to less severe worries.