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doubt

verb

/daʊt/

IPA:

Dictionary definition of doubt

To question or feel uncertain about something.
"The jury's doubt led them to deliver a not guilty verdict."

Detailed meaning of doubt

It involves a lack of confidence or trust in the truth, validity, or reliability of a statement, idea, belief, or situation. When one doubts, they harbor a sense of skepticism and hesitation, often accompanied by a desire for further evidence or clarification. Doubting may arise from a variety of factors, such as conflicting information, lack of proof, or personal uncertainty. It is an intellectual and emotional state where one entertains the possibility of an alternative viewpoint or outcome, withholding complete acceptance or conviction. Doubt prompts individuals to critically analyze, investigate, and seek clarification, allowing for a deeper understanding or resolution to be reached. It plays a crucial role in the pursuit of knowledge, as it challenges assumptions and encourages exploration of different perspectives.

Example sentences containing doubt

1. I seriously doubt his ability to complete the project on time.
2. She couldn't help but doubt the sincerity of his apology.
3. Many people doubt the accuracy of that controversial report.
4. I often doubt my own decisions when faced with tough choices.
5. It's natural to doubt the intentions of a stranger.
6. We should never doubt the importance of honest communication.

History and etymology of doubt

The verb 'doubt' has its etymological origins in Middle English and Old French. It is derived from the Old French word 'doter,' which meant 'to doubt' or 'to be uncertain.' The Old French term, in turn, can be traced back to the Latin word 'dubitare,' which means 'to hesitate' or 'to waver in opinion.' The Latin 'dubitare' itself is related to 'dubius,' signifying 'doubtful' or 'uncertain.' Therefore, the etymology of 'doubt' reflects the idea of questioning or feeling uncertain about something, often involving a hesitation or wavering in one's beliefs or opinions. Over time, 'doubt' has become a fundamental term in language and thought, representing the human capacity to question and seek clarification, thereby contributing to the advancement of knowledge and understanding.

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Further usage examples of doubt

1. Some critics doubt the relevance of classical literature today.
2. He had no reason to doubt her loyalty after years of friendship.
3. I sincerely doubt that the weather will improve anytime soon.
4. Don't doubt yourself; you have the skills to succeed.
5. Despite the odds, he refused to doubt the possibility of success.
6. I strongly doubt the effectiveness of this new marketing strategy.
7. They began to doubt the existence of extraterrestrial life.
8. You should never doubt the power of perseverance.
9. It's not uncommon to doubt the existence of true love.
10. We often doubt our abilities when faced with challenges.
11. She couldn't help but doubt his intentions when he disappeared.
12. Doubt can be a crippling emotion if left unchecked.
13. Don't let fear and doubt hold you back from pursuing your dreams.
14. It's okay to doubt, but always seek the truth to dispel uncertainty.
15. I doubt he'll make it on time; he's always running late.
16. Should you doubt the path to take, trust your instincts.
17. She expressed her doubt about the success of the new project.
18. If you ever doubt yourself, remember all the challenges you've already overcome.
19. There's no doubt that she's the best candidate for the job.
20. He never let doubt interfere with his dream of becoming a musician.
21. Despite her assurances, I couldn't help but doubt her sincerity.
22. The detective's doubt was evident when questioning the suspect's alibi.
23. "When in doubt, read the instructions," he joked, pointing to the manual.
24. I have no doubt that you'll ace the test tomorrow.
25. Her eyes filled with doubt when she saw the steep mountain she was supposed to climb.