Doubt: meaning, definitions and examples

Use this word when you are not sure about something.

• I have doubt about his story
• She expressed doubt about the success of the plan

Use this term when describing a situation where the outcome is not known or decided.

• There is uncertainty about the future
• His uncertainty was clear in his hesitant speech

This word is used when someone is generally distrustful or doesn't easily believe things. It often has a negative connotation.

• He greeted the news with skepticism
• There is a lot of skepticism about the new policy

This term is appropriate when someone is looking for answers or is curious about something.

• She spent the evening questioning her life choices
• The police are questioning witnesses

Use 'doubt' in situations when there's uncertainty or lack of conviction about something. This word is neutral and commonly used in everyday conversations.

• I doubt he will come to the party.
• She has doubts about the accuracy of the report.

Use 'question' when you want to inquire about the validity or truth of something. This word is often used in formal or investigative contexts.

• The journalist questioned the politician's motives.
• Scientists are questioning the results of the experiment.

Use 'suspect' when you have a feeling or belief, usually based on limited evidence, that something might be true, often something negative or undesirable.

• I suspect he is hiding something from us.
• The police suspect foul play in the case.

Use 'disbelieve' when someone refuses to accept something as true. It indicates a stronger level of rejection compared to 'doubt'. This word often carries a negative connotation.

• He disbelieves her claims of innocence.
• Many disbelieve the official statement about the incident.