sow doubt

USAGE SUMMARY

This is a correct phrase that can be used in written English to suggest an element of hesitation or uncertainty.
For example: "The lack of evidence that global warming is caused by humans continues to sow doubt amongst scientists."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

However, the deviations sow doubt.

Médecine des Maladies Métaboliques

Would it sow doubt in your believer's heart?

The New Yorker

Siskind continued to sow doubt about Bash's intent.

The Washington Post

Your intention is to try to sow doubt into whether this network exists".

The New York Times

German officials on Monday continued to sow doubt about Greece's future in the euro monetary union.

The New York Times

It's trying to sow doubt and leverage uncertainty and gum up the regulatory process.

The New York Times

"That would be laughable if it didn't sow doubt among officials and legislators," she said.

The New York Times

Both groups seek to sow doubt over the consequences of climate change.

The Guardian

Other pro-Trump sites published stories to sow doubt about Ford's credibility.

The Washington Post

Without directly accusing the prosecutors of selective prosecution, they tried throughout the trial to sow doubt about their intentions.

The New York Times

Those molecular-level variations give brand companies and allied groups an opening to sow doubt about effectiveness or safety.

The Washington Post

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "sow doubt" when you want to convey the idea of subtly introducing uncertainty or skepticism into a situation or someone's mind, often over time.

Common error

Avoid using "sow doubt" when a more direct or forceful expression of doubt is intended. Phrases like "cast doubt" or "express skepticism" might be more appropriate in those cases.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "sow doubt" functions as a verb phrase, typically used as a transitive verb, where someone or something is actively causing uncertainty. As affirmed by Ludwig AI, it indicates the action of instilling or creating doubt, often subtly or over time. The examples illustrate its use in various contexts, such as politics and scientific discourse.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

75%

Academia

15%

Formal & Business

5%

Less common in

Science

3%

Encyclopedias

1%

Reference

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "sow doubt" is a versatile and frequently used verbal phrase that effectively communicates the subtle introduction of uncertainty or skepticism. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and wide applicability. Predominantly found in news and media, and academic contexts, it serves to question or undermine confidence in various claims and actions. Related phrases like "instill doubt" and "cast doubt" offer similar but nuanced alternatives, enriching communication. While the phrase is generally neutral, understanding its scope is crucial to avoid misapplication. As a final note, it is a popular phrase that should be used with care.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

Plant doubt

Very similar to "sow doubt", but focuses on the initial act of introducing doubt.

Instill doubt

Focuses more on the act of implanting doubt, making it a slightly more direct action than "sow doubt".

Cast doubt

Implies a more forceful and public expression of doubt, differing from the more subtle implication of "sow doubt".

Create doubt

Highlights the generation of doubt, differing slightly from the cultivation implied by "sow doubt".

Spread doubt

Emphasizes the dissemination of doubt, making it a more expansive concept than the targeted act of "sow doubt".

Incite doubt

Suggests a stronger instigation of doubt, often implying a deliberate attempt to provoke skepticism.

Manufacture doubt

Highlights the artificial creation of doubt, suggesting a more deliberate and potentially deceptive act.

Sow suspicion

Similar to sowing doubt, but emphasizes the creation of mistrust or wariness.

Sow confusion

While not directly related to doubt, it shares the idea of planting uncertainty, but focuses on a broader lack of clarity.

Raise questions

Focuses on prompting inquiry, which can lead to doubt but doesn't directly imply it.

FAQs

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

You can use "sow doubt" to describe a subtle or gradual introduction of uncertainty. For example: "The politician's vague answers were designed to "sow doubt" about his opponent's integrity."

What can I say instead of "sow doubt"?

You can use alternatives like "instill doubt", "cast doubt", or "plant doubt" depending on the context.

Is it better to "sow doubt" or "cast doubt"?

The choice between ""sow doubt"" and "cast doubt" depends on the context. "Sow doubt" implies a subtle, gradual process, while "cast doubt" suggests a more direct and forceful expression of skepticism.

What's the difference between "sow doubt" and "sow confusion"?

"Sow doubt" specifically refers to creating uncertainty about a particular claim or belief. "Sow confusion" refers to creating a general lack of clarity or understanding.