Qualm: meaning, definitions and examples

If you have an uneasy feeling of doubt or fear, often about a moral issue or decision, this word is fitting. It usually suggests a sudden concern or uncertainty.

• He had qualms about lying to his friend.
• She felt a qualm of guilt after taking the money.

Use this word when there's a feeling of doubt or apprehension about the outcome of something. It often refers to worries about potential problems or dangers.

• They expressed misgivings about the plan's feasibility.
• Despite her misgivings, she agreed to go on the trip.

This word applies when referring to a moral or ethical consideration that restrains someone from doing something. It often indicates a higher level of moral integrity.

• He had no scruples against cheating if it meant winning.
• Her scruples prevented her from accepting the generous bribe.

This is best used when someone is pausing or delaying before they do something because they are unsure or cautious. It's a general term and doesn't necessarily imply moral concerns.

• She answered without the slightest hesitation.
• His hesitation was obvious when he was asked to join the project.

Qualm is often used to describe a feeling of uneasiness or doubt, especially regarding one's own conduct or decisions.

• She had no qualms about lying to get the job.
• Despite his qualms, he decided to go ahead with the plan.

Dizziness refers to the sensation of losing balance or the feeling that everything around you is spinning. It's commonly associated with medical conditions or sudden movement.

• He felt a wave of dizziness after standing up quickly.
• The roller coaster made her experience severe dizziness.

Faintness usually describes a feeling of being lightheaded or close to losing consciousness. It can happen due to hunger, heat, or other physical conditions.

• She was overcome with faintness after not eating all day.
• The intense heat caused a moment of faintness.

Nausea is the feeling of being sick to one's stomach, often a precursor to vomiting. It's common in a variety of situations, including illness, pregnancy, or motion sickness.

• The boat ride caused severe nausea.
• She felt a wave of nausea after eating the spoiled food.

Use this when someone feels uneasy or has an uncomfortable feeling about something, often related to their conscience or morality.

• He had a qualm about lying to his friend.
• She felt a qualm of guilt after breaking the promise.

This is used when someone pauses before doing something, often due to uncertainty or fear.

• He hesitated before answering the difficult question.
• Don't hesitate to ask if you have any questions.

This is appropriate when someone is uncertain about something or lacks confidence in its truth or reliability.

• I have my doubts about the success of this project.
• She doubted his story because it didn’t add up.

This is fitting when someone is unable to make a decision, often going back and forth between choices.

• She wavered between accepting the job offer and staying at her current job.
• His confidence wavered after several failures.