substantial doubt

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "substantial doubt" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used in contexts where there is significant uncertainty or skepticism about a situation, claim, or outcome. Example: "The auditor expressed substantial doubt about the company's ability to continue as a going concern."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

58 human-written examples

The auditor for G.M., Deloitte & Touche, said Thursday that G.M.'s survival was in "substantial doubt".

The New York Times

"Absent economic support from GMAC, substantial doubt exists regarding ResCap's ability to continue as a going concern," GMAC said.

The New York Times

It restated its annual financial results to recognize that there was substantial doubt it could stay in business.

The New York Times

In that filing, the company noted that there was a "substantial doubt" that it could continue as a going concern.

The New York Times

"These matters, among others, raise substantial doubt about the company's ability to continue as a going concern," Midway said.

The New York Times

The circumstances raise "substantial doubt about our ability to continue as a going concern," Xerox said in the filing.

The New York Times

As a result the auditor expressed "substantial doubt" about the company's ability to continue as a going concern.

The New York Times

Pash upheld Birch's refusal to answer, a decision that Magnuson wrote "casts substantial doubt on Mr. Pash's neutrality".

The New York Times - Sports

The firm was forced to admit in its annual report that its survival was in "substantial doubt".

The Economist

"To any reasonable observer, the vehemence of those beliefs would raise substantial doubt that he could fairly reevaluate the evidence".

The New York Times

Since prosecutors must prove guilt beyond a reasonable doubt, these critics say, they cannot ethically bring conflicting cases, which by their nature suggest substantial doubt.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "substantial doubt" in formal writing, ensure the context clearly specifies what the doubt pertains to. Being specific enhances clarity and credibility.

Common error

Avoid using "substantial doubt" in casual conversation or informal writing. Simpler phrases like "I'm not sure" or "I doubt it" are more appropriate.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "substantial doubt" primarily functions as a noun phrase where "substantial" modifies "doubt". It describes the magnitude or degree of uncertainty or disbelief. Ludwig AI indicates that it is correct and frequently used in written English.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

65%

Formal & Business

20%

Science

15%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "substantial doubt" is a common and grammatically sound way to express a significant level of uncertainty. As confirmed by Ludwig AI, it's applicable across various contexts, particularly in news, business, and legal settings. While alternatives like "considerable uncertainty" or "significant skepticism" exist, the choice depends on the specific nuance you wish to convey. Remember to use it judiciously in formal writing to clearly specify the object of the doubt and avoid overuse in informal contexts.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

considerable uncertainty

Focuses on the level of uncertainty involved, highlighting the magnitude of doubt.

significant skepticism

Emphasizes disbelief or questioning attitude towards something.

serious reservations

Highlights the concerns or hesitations one has about something.

grave misgivings

Conveys a stronger sense of worry or apprehension.

profound uncertainty

Stresses the depth and extent of the unknown.

genuine apprehension

Focuses on the anxiety and worry associated with a situation.

real questioning

Emphasizes the act of doubting and inquiring into something.

major uncertainty

Highlights the size and impact of the unknown.

fundamental questioning

Focuses on questioning of the basis or foundation of something.

critical uncertainty

Emphasizes uncertainty of vital importance or consequence.

FAQs

How to use "substantial doubt" in a sentence?

You can use "substantial doubt" to express significant uncertainty about something. For instance, "The evidence presented raises "substantial doubt" about the defendant's alibi".

What can I say instead of "substantial doubt"?

You can use alternatives like "considerable uncertainty", "significant skepticism", or "serious reservations depending on the specific context.

Which is correct, "reasonable doubt" or "substantial doubt"?

"Reasonable doubt" is a legal term, while ""substantial doubt"" is a more general expression of uncertainty. The choice depends on the context in which you're using the phrase.

What's the difference between "substantial doubt" and "serious doubt"?

Both phrases convey a significant level of uncertainty, but "serious doubt" might imply a greater degree of concern or apprehension than ""substantial doubt"", although they're often interchangeable.