slight suspicion

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "slight suspicion" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when expressing a minor or tentative feeling of doubt or mistrust about something or someone. Example: "She had a slight suspicion that he was not being entirely honest with her."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

14 human-written examples

"Had he maintained his innocence, there would have always have been a slight suspicion around me".

The Guardian

Karen, being taken into London for a shopping trip for her 39th birthday, looked around the pub with slight suspicion.

The Guardian

True, with Mr. Bloomberg, master of the eponymous empire, there is always the slight suspicion that his campaign is an exercise in brand extension.

The New York Times

I did genuinely try, although it might not look like I did!" Kirsten's slight suspicion of the media began when she was starting out in TV.

Independent

I'm a little wary about picking the two main acting awards, because I have a slight suspicion that George Clooney might edge Jeff Bridges and Carey Mulligan could well challenge Meryl Streep (home advantage and all that).

The Guardian - Film

They are, undeniably, a good thing: an unashamedly serious group, finding a growing audience despite a refusal to compromise – but there's still a slight suspicion that the songwriting doesn't yet quite match the rhetoric and presentation.

The Guardian

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

46 human-written examples

Jay Kornegay, the vice president for race and sports book operations at the Las Vegas Hilton, said that one San Diego game from the 2009-10 season raised slight suspicions, and that came on Dec. 4, 2009, when odds on San Diego's game at U.C.-Riverside opened with San Diego as a 2 ½-point favorite and closed with San Diego as a 1-point underdog.

The New York Times - Sports

"Keith wouldn't have had even the slightest suspicion".

The New Yorker

"When the slightest suspicion was raised, we did everything possible".

The New York Times

The public has little patience for the slightest suspicion that politicians abuse their office.

The New York Times

No one knows for certain how so many could die, apparently over several weeks, without the slightest suspicion.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "slight suspicion" to express a tentative feeling of doubt, avoiding stronger terms when the evidence is not conclusive.

Common error

Avoid using "slight suspicion" when you have strong evidence. A more direct term like "strong suspicion" or "belief" would be more appropriate.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "slight suspicion" functions primarily as a noun phrase, where "slight" modifies the noun "suspicion". It describes the intensity or degree of the suspicion. Ludwig AI confirms its correct usage.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

52%

Science

25%

Wiki

12%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

6%

Formal & Business

3%

Social Media

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "slight suspicion" is a common and grammatically correct way to express a mild or tentative feeling of doubt. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's suitable for various contexts, particularly in News & Media and Science, offering a balanced way to convey doubt without overstating the case. Related phrases like "mild doubt" and "small concern" can be used as alternatives, depending on the specific nuance you aim to convey. Remember to use "slight suspicion" when the evidence is not conclusive, and avoid stronger terms if the doubt is merely a gut feeling. Understanding this helps to make clear and precise communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

mild distrust

Emphasizes a lack of trust, which is a component of suspicion.

faint doubt

Focuses on the uncertainty aspect, minimizing the accusatory tone.

minimal uncertainty

Highlights the very small degree of doubt involved.

minor reservation

Indicates a hesitant feeling or objection, a subdued form of suspicion.

small concern

Replaces the idea of suspicion with a worry.

subtle apprehension

Emphasizes a feeling of anxiety and wariness.

passing misgiving

Highlights the fleeting nature of the doubt.

lingering question

Focuses on an unresolved issue that continues to cause doubt.

nagging feeling

Underscores the persistent and bothersome nature of the suspicion.

vague unease

Suggests a general discomfort or anxiety without clear cause.

FAQs

How can I use "slight suspicion" in a sentence?

You can use "slight suspicion" to indicate a minor feeling of doubt or mistrust. For example, "She had a slight suspicion that he was hiding something".

What are some alternatives to "slight suspicion"?

Alternatives include "mild doubt", "faint suspicion", or "small concern", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is "slight suspicion" formal or informal?

"Slight suspicion" is suitable for both formal and informal contexts, as it is a relatively neutral expression.

What's the difference between "slight suspicion" and "strong suspicion"?

"Slight suspicion" indicates a minor, tentative doubt, whereas "strong suspicion" suggests a more significant and justified feeling of mistrust.