What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
suspect
Example
The police suspect that the man in the black hoodie is the thief. [suspect: verb]
Example
I suspect that it will rain today based on the dark clouds in the sky. [suspect: verb]
Example
I have a suspicion that my friend is lying to me. [suspicion: noun]
doubt
Example
I doubt that he will show up on time, given his track record. [doubt: verb]
Example
There is some doubt about the accuracy of the data presented in the report. [doubt: noun]
Example
I have my doubts about the feasibility of this project. [doubts: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Doubt is more commonly used than suspect in everyday language. Doubt is a common word that can be used in various contexts, while suspect is less common and is typically used in legal or criminal contexts.
Whatโs the difference in the tone of formality between suspect and doubt?
Both suspect and doubt can be used in formal and informal contexts. However, suspect may be more formal due to its association with legal or criminal contexts.
