Duda

A 'duda' is a Spanish and Portuguese word primarily meaning 'doubt,' 'hesitation,' or 'uncertainty.' It signifies a lack of confidence in something, a questioning of its truth, or an inability to make a decision due to conflicting possibilities or insufficient information. It can manifest as a feeling of skepticism, indecision, or a general sense of being unsure. The intensity of 'duda' can vary from a slight reservation to a deep-seated suspicion or disbelief, impacting one's willingness to act or commit to a specific course. The nuance of 'duda' depends on context, covering doubts about facts, feelings, actions, or the reliability of others.

Duda meaning with examples

• Tengo una duda sobre el resultado del examen. (I have a doubt about the exam result.) The student expressed a 'duda,' indicating uncertainty regarding their performance and the potential outcome. The uncertainty arose from not knowing the correct answers to a difficult section, which has now induced a state of 'duda' until results arrive.
• La 'duda' lo paralizaba y no tomaba ninguna decisión. (The doubt paralyzed him and he made no decision.) The character's persistent 'duda' prevented action. His indecisiveness was fueled by the 'duda' around potential consequences, leading to stagnation and inaction until the 'duda' was relieved.
• La 'duda' sobre sus intenciones me hizo desconfiar. (The doubt about his intentions made me distrust him.) The speaker's 'duda' regarding the person's motives led to suspicion. The 'duda' about the nature of the intentions spurred mistrust due to an unsure feeling.
• Sentí una 'duda' al escuchar sus palabras. (I felt a doubt upon hearing his words.) Upon listening to the account, the speaker experienced 'duda.' The speaker's uncertainty originated from an ambiguous account, causing a momentary sense of 'duda' in the listener.
• La investigación está llena de 'dudas' y no se sabe la verdad. (The investigation is full of doubts and the truth is not known.) The inquiry's ambiguity caused constant 'duda' regarding the veracity of claims. Due to the persistent 'duda', reaching a verifiable conclusion has been impossible.