Doubt is a common human emotion that often influences our decisions and actions. It can be subtle or overwhelming, but it’s always present in some form. Here are 20 idioms that vividly describe various aspects of doubt, helping you express this complex feeling with clarity.
1. On the fence
Meaning: Undecided
Example: She was on the fence about attending the party.
2. Up in the air
Meaning: Uncertain
Example: The plans are still up in the air.
3. Second thoughts
Meaning: Reconsidering
Example: He’s having second thoughts about the job offer.
4. In two minds
Meaning: Indecisive
Example: I’m in two minds about moving to the city.
5. Not sure
Meaning: Uncertain
Example: I’m not sure if I locked the door.
6. Hazy idea
Meaning: Vague understanding
Example: I have a hazy idea about the project’s details.
7. Mixed feelings
Meaning: Conflicted emotions
Example: She had mixed feelings about her promotion.
8. In a quandary
Meaning: Confused
Example: He’s in a quandary over which car to buy.
9. Wavering
Meaning: Hesitating
Example: Her confidence was wavering during the interview.
10. On the horns of a dilemma
Meaning: Facing a difficult choice
Example: He’s on the horns of a dilemma about his career path.
11. Hedge one’s bets
Meaning: Avoid commitment
Example: She’s hedging her bets by applying to multiple universities.
12. Skeptical
Meaning: Doubtful
Example: He’s skeptical about the new policy.
13. Ifs and buts
Meaning: Uncertainties
Example: There are too many ifs and buts in this plan.
14. Up in the air
Meaning: Unresolved
Example: The decision is still up in the air.
15. A shot in the dark
Meaning: Guess
Example: Her answer was just a shot in the dark.
16. Wishy-washy
Meaning: Indecisive
Example: His wishy-washy behavior annoyed everyone.
17. Sitting on the fence
Meaning: Undecided
Example: She’s sitting on the fence about joining the club.
18. In a fog
Meaning: Confused
Example: He was in a fog after the unexpected news.
19. Touch-and-go
Meaning: Uncertain
Example: The outcome of the game is still touch-and-go.
20. In a pickle
Meaning: Difficult situation
Example: She’s in a pickle over her conflicting commitments.
