subject to doubt

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "subject to doubt" is correct and usable in written English.
It is used when expressing an opinion or belief that something is uncertain or questionable. For example: His statements about the incident are subject to doubt.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

14 human-written examples

The goal, already subject to doubt and even ridicule, is to produce a reform bill this fall, with a minimum of members' fingerprints on the most controversial parts.

The New York Times

The I.R.S. wants companies to file, within their tax returns, a list of areas subject to doubt and the maximum amount that might be involved.

The New York Times

And it will encourage other hospitals to improve their act so they too can move to foundation status.Even this scenario of modest change and modest improvement is subject to doubt.

The Economist

The link between vulnerability and entrepreneurship is no longer subject to doubt.

Journal of Innovation and Entrepreneurship

As earlier noted, the existence of my body is subject to doubt.

SEP

The interpretation has it that these natural light propositions are in no way subject to doubt, unlike ordinary clearly and distinctly perceivable truths.

SEP

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

46 human-written examples

Most states allow this, but defense lawyers rarely recommend it; they believe a jury of twelve people is more subject to doubts, and therefore less likely to convict, than a single presiding magistrate.

The New Yorker

The book challenges both popular and scholarly portrayals of Malcolm X, the black nationalist leader, describing a man often subject to doubts about theology, politics and other matters, quite different from the figure of unswerving moral certitude that became an enduring symbol of African-American pride.

The New York Times - Books

The euro area will become much more like the ERM -- subject to doubts and speculative attack (including bank runs) whenever incentives affecting national policymakers become sufficiently misaligned.

HuffPost

It ensures that the method only approves candidate first principles that are unshakable in their own right: it rules out that the appearance of unshakability is owed to logical relations with other principles, themselves not subjected to doubt.

SEP

In the build-up to the game, Atletico's champions will once again, it is certain, be subjected to doubts and scrutiny, especially if Costa's fragile hamstring forces him to miss the game.

BBC

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "subject to doubt" to express a measured level of uncertainty, suitable when you want to acknowledge a possibility without outright dismissal. For example: "The accuracy of the survey results is "subject to doubt" due to the small sample size".

Common error

Avoid using "subject to doubt" when you intend to express strong disbelief or rejection. Choose stronger phrases like "unreliable" or "false" for clear communication.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "subject to doubt" functions as an adjectival phrase, modifying a noun to indicate that the noun's validity or reliability is questionable. Ludwig AI confirms that it is used to express uncertainty or skepticism.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

36%

Science

36%

Encyclopedias

7%

Less common in

Wiki

7%

Academia

3%

Formal & Business

3%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "subject to doubt" is a grammatically sound and commonly used expression to indicate uncertainty or skepticism. Ludwig AI validates its correct usage in written English. It functions as an adjectival phrase and appears frequently in news, scientific, and encyclopedic contexts. When using this phrase, ensure it aligns with the intended level of uncertainty and is not used to express outright disbelief. Alternatives like "questionable" or "open to question" can be considered for nuanced expression. Remember to avoid overstating the level of uncertainty for clarity.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

in doubt

Shorter, more direct way of expressing uncertainty.

open to question

Highlights that the subject is not settled and can be challenged.

uncertain

Focuses on the lack of definitive knowledge or assurance.

questionable

Single word replacement focusing on the characteristic of uncertainty.

dubious

Implies a stronger sense of disbelief or suspicion.

contestable

Suggests that something can be disputed or challenged.

debatable

Emphasizes the possibility of differing opinions and arguments.

up for debate

Similar to "debatable" but with a more active connotation.

not proven

Focuses on the lack of evidence or verification.

under suspicion

Adds an element of distrust or possible wrongdoing.

FAQs

How can I use "subject to doubt" in a sentence?

You can use "subject to doubt" to express that something is uncertain or questionable. For example: "His claims about the discovery are "subject to doubt" until further evidence is presented."

What phrases are similar to "subject to doubt"?

Similar phrases include "questionable", "open to question", and "dubious". The best alternative depends on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it correct to say "subjected to doubt" instead of "subject to doubt"?

While both phrases exist, "subject to doubt" typically describes something's inherent quality of being questionable. "Subjected to doubt" implies an action of questioning something, which might be appropriate in different contexts.

What is the difference between "subject to doubt" and "subject to debate"?

"Subject to doubt" indicates uncertainty about the truth or validity of something. "Subject to debate" means that the topic is open for discussion and disagreement, but not necessarily untrue. Something that is "subject to debate" may have valid arguments on both sides.