the benefit of the doubt
noun phrase
: 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.
Examples of the benefit of the doubt in a Sentence
Recent Examples on the Web
Unlike Blackshear, Etienne is probably going to receive the benefit of the doubt as a rookie draft pick.
—
Charlotte Observer, 9 Aug. 2025
But others argue Kemp has earned the benefit of the doubt.
—Samantha-Jo Roth, The Washington Examiner, 1 Aug. 2025
There is no sugar coating this & giving him the benefit of the doubt & a pass!
—Virginia Chamlee, People.com, 26 July 2025
Moss should have plenty of chances to earn the benefit of the doubt after some solid performances next to Surtain in 2024.
—Luca Evans, Denver Post, 18 July 2025
See All Example Sentences for the benefit of the doubt
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Charlotte Observer, 9 Aug. 2025
But others argue Kemp has earned the benefit of the doubt.
—Samantha-Jo Roth, The Washington Examiner, 1 Aug. 2025
There is no sugar coating this & giving him the benefit of the doubt & a pass!
—Virginia Chamlee, People.com, 26 July 2025
Moss should have plenty of chances to earn the benefit of the doubt after some solid performances next to Surtain in 2024.
—Luca Evans, Denver Post, 18 July 2025
See All Example Sentences for the benefit of the doubt
Cite this Entry
“The benefit of the doubt.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/the%20benefit%20of%20the%20doubt. Accessed 19 Aug. 2025.
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