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the benefit of the doubt

noun phrase

Definition of the benefit of the doubt

: the state of accepting something/someone as honest or deserving of trust even though there are doubts
  • He might be lying, but we have to give him the benefit of the doubt and accept what he says for now.

Word by Word Definitions

benefit play

  1. : something that produces good or helpful results or effects or that promotes well-being : advantage

  2. : useful aid : help

  3. : financial help in time of sickness, old age, or unemployment

  1. : to be useful or profitable to

  2. : to receive help or an advantage : to receive benefit

See the full definition of benefit
doubt play

  1. : fear

  2. : suspect

  3. : to call into question the truth of : to be uncertain or in doubt about

  1. : uncertainty of belief or opinion that often interferes with decision-making

  2. : a deliberate suspension of judgment

  3. : a state of affairs giving rise to uncertainty, hesitation, or suspense

See the full definition of doubt

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