with due skepticism

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "with due skepticism" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when expressing a cautious or questioning attitude towards a statement or claim, indicating that one should not accept it at face value. Example: "While the study presents interesting findings, we should approach its conclusions with due skepticism."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

1 human-written examples

Copland, despite his lingering proSoviet sympathies, observed the spectacle with due skepticism, distancing himself from the propaganda on both sides.

The New Yorker

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

59 human-written examples

"We encourage registered public accounting firms to take action and conduct audits with due professional care, including professional skepticism".

The New York Times

Historically, the existence of tubular stem cells was greeted with considerable skepticism due to the lack of any histological or expression data that suggested nephrons had unique subsets of cells among the differentiated epithelial populace.

Clinical and Translational Medicine

He said he regarded one of the former Fox chief's accusers with "extreme skepticism" due to his own personal experiences.

Huffington Post

DNA nanotechnology was initially met with some skepticism due to the unusual non-biological use of nucleic acids as materials for building structures and doing computation, and the preponderance of proof of principle experiments that extended the capabilities of the field but were far from actual applications.

Wikipedia

However, it is possible that spinal surgery may be regarded with more skepticism due to fear of adverse consequences.

BMC Musculoskeletal Disorders

While these results should be treated with healthy skepticism, due to a variety of possible difficulties, such as the observed high rate of copy-number variations in the Bd chromosomes, they illustrate the kinds of tantalizing observations that can be made with our Galaxy tools.

GigaScience

Yet while some genetic analyses of modern sponges suggest a Precambrian date, claims for fossils that early have been met with skepticism due to their poor preservation.

Science Magazine

In contrast, pictorial scales have been promoted for children due to skepticism concerning applicability of the said scales in pediatrics.

Sports Medicine - Open

In the evidence-based era, herbal medicine is, however, often underestimated and approached with skepticism, mainly due to the paucity of scientific evidence.

Phytomedicine

The majority of scientists viewed their experiments with skepticism, partly due to Pasteur's masterful negative demonstration in the nineteenth century (Fry 2000).

Evolution: Education and Outreach

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When writing about data or claims, clarify the reasons for your skepticism. Provide specific points that warrant a cautious approach rather than simply stating skepticism as a general sentiment.

Common error

Avoid using "with due skepticism" excessively, as it can make your writing sound overly cautious or critical. Instead, vary your language to express doubt or reservation in different ways.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "with due skepticism" functions as an adverbial phrase modifying a verb, indicating how an action (like observing or considering) should be performed. It advises a careful, questioning approach rather than immediate acceptance. Ludwig confirms that this is a correct and usable phrase.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

30%

Science

30%

Encyclopedias

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

10%

Wiki

10%

Reference

10%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "with due skepticism" serves as a call for balanced critical thinking, urging careful consideration rather than outright dismissal. While grammatically correct and appropriate for formal contexts like news, media, and scientific writing, it is important to use the phrase judiciously to avoid sounding overly critical. Ludwig's analysis shows it is more frequent in formal contexts. Alternatives like "with healthy skepticism" or "with a grain of salt" can offer similar meanings with slightly different nuances. The key is to employ "with due skepticism" when thoughtful evaluation is paramount.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

with healthy skepticism

Focuses on maintaining a balanced and positive approach while still being skeptical.

with appropriate skepticism

Emphasizes the suitability of the skepticism to the situation.

with a grain of salt

Indicates taking something with a degree of reservation or doubt.

with a critical eye

Highlights the importance of careful and analytical evaluation.

with caution

Suggests a general need for careful consideration and wariness.

with reservation

Implies holding back complete acceptance or agreement.

with a questioning attitude

Focuses on the active process of inquiry and doubt.

with circumspection

Emphasizes prudence and careful consideration of all circumstances.

with disbelief

Indicates a stronger sense of doubt or incredulity.

with suspicion

Suggests a negative assessment and a lack of trust.

FAQs

How can I use "with due skepticism" in a sentence?

You can use "with due skepticism" to express that something should not be accepted without questioning or careful consideration. For example, "While the initial results are promising, we should approach the findings "with due skepticism" until further research confirms them."

What are some alternatives to "with due skepticism"?

Alternatives include "with healthy skepticism", "with a grain of salt", or "with a critical eye". The best choice depends on the specific context and the nuance you want to convey.

Is it appropriate to use "with due skepticism" in formal writing?

Yes, "with due skepticism" is appropriate for formal writing, especially in academic or professional contexts where critical evaluation is important. It conveys a balanced and thoughtful approach.

What's the difference between "with due skepticism" and "with cynicism"?

"With due skepticism" implies a cautious and questioning attitude, while "with cynicism" suggests a general distrust and belief that people are motivated by self-interest. Skepticism is more neutral, whereas cynicism carries a negative connotation.