What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
suspense
Example
The suspenseful music in the movie kept me on the edge of my seat. [suspense: adjective]
Example
The suspense built as the detective got closer to solving the case. [suspense: noun]
doubt
Example
I have some doubt about whether he is telling the truth. [doubt: noun]
Example
She doubted her ability to complete the task on time. [doubted: verb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Doubt is more commonly used than suspense in everyday language. Doubt is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while suspense is less common and primarily used in the context of entertainment.
Whatโs the difference in the tone of formality between suspense and doubt?
Both suspense and doubt can be used in formal and informal contexts, but doubt is more versatile and can be used in a wider range of situations.