we have our doubts

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "we have our doubts" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when expressing uncertainty or skepticism about a situation, idea, or claim. Example: "While we appreciate the proposal, we have our doubts about its feasibility given the current budget constraints."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

16 human-written examples

Now we have our doubts," wrote Eckersley.

The Guardian - Tech

"I'm human now, we have our doubts," Williams said.

The New York Times - Sports

They are said to be random strangers, but we have our doubts.

The New Yorker

So we have our doubts about whether the scheme will, in the end, prosper.

The New Yorker

"We have our doubts, as the E.C.B.'s stamina is probably limited and the E.F.S.F.'s balance sheet is capped".

The New York Times

They will have to generate the results that they say they can and will, though we have our doubts".

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

44 human-written examples

A speaker at the ceremony recited a quote from Henry James: "We work in the dark, we do what we can, we give what we have, our doubt is our passion, and passion is our task — the rest is the madness of art".

The New York Times

"We had our doubts, yes we did," he says.

The New York Times

'We had our doubts but this confirms them.

The Guardian

We had our doubts.

BBC

In any event, we had our doubts when we saw the bottle.

Huffington Post

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "we have our doubts" to politely express skepticism without being overly confrontational. It softens disagreement.

Common error

Avoid using "we have our doubts" in highly formal or academic writing. Opt for more precise and objective language to convey skepticism.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "we have our doubts" primarily functions as a declarative statement expressing uncertainty or skepticism. Ludwig AI confirms this usage, providing examples where it's used to politely question or express reservations about something.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

87%

Science

6%

Academia

4%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "we have our doubts" is a common and grammatically correct way to express skepticism or uncertainty. As Ludwig AI indicates, it's often used to politely soften disagreement, and is mostly found in news media. When writing, remember that while generally acceptable, the phrase might be perceived as informal in certain professional or academic environments and consider more objective alternatives.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

we are skeptical

Directly expresses a lack of conviction or belief.

we have reservations

Indicates unease or concerns about something.

we are not convinced

Emphasizes a lack of persuasion or belief.

we are dubious

Highlights a strong sense of doubt or suspicion.

we question

Suggests an active process of examining and doubting.

we find it hard to believe

Expresses difficulty in accepting something as true.

we are uncertain

Indicates a lack of clarity or sureness.

we remain unconvinced

Suggests a continued lack of persuasion despite evidence.

our confidence is low

Focuses on the level of assurance one has.

we view it with suspicion

Highlights a distrustful perspective.

FAQs

How can I use "we have our doubts" in a sentence?

You can use "we have our doubts" to express skepticism about a claim or situation. For example, "They promised significant improvements, but "we have our doubts" about their ability to deliver".

What are some alternatives to "we have our doubts"?

Alternatives include "we are skeptical", "we have reservations", or "we are not convinced". The best choice depends on the specific context and desired level of formality.

Is "we have our doubts" too informal for professional communication?

While generally acceptable, "we have our doubts" might be perceived as slightly informal in certain professional contexts. Consider using more formal alternatives like "we are skeptical" or "we express reservations" for a more polished tone.

What's the difference between "we have our doubts" and "we are sure"?

"We have our doubts" expresses uncertainty or disbelief, while "we are sure" expresses confidence or certainty. They are antonyms, representing opposite ends of the belief spectrum.