ɡɪv ˈsʌmwʌn ðə ˈbɛnɪfɪt əv ðə daʊt
Relationships
neutral
intermediate
- Literally:
- To give someone the advantageous side of an uncertain situation
What does "give someone the benefit of the doubt" mean?
- To believe someone's statement without proof
- To assume someone is innocent or telling the truth when there is uncertainty
Examples
- I'll give him the benefit of the doubt and assume he didn't mean to offend me.
- Let's give her the benefit of the doubt—she might have a good explanation.
- I gave him the benefit of the doubt, but he proved me wrong.
Origin
Legal term from the concept that a defendant should be presumed innocent until proven guilty. The 'doubt' should benefit the accused.
How to use it
Used when choosing to trust someone despite uncertainty. Implies generosity in judgment.
Similar expressions
trust
believe
assume the best
have faith in
Opposites
suspect
distrust
assume guilt
Related idioms
- break the ice
To initiate conversation in an awkward social situation
- see eye to eye
To agree with someone completely
- head over heels
Completely and deeply in love
- pull someone's leg
To tease or joke with someone
- cut someone some slack
To be less strict or demanding with someone
- tie the knot
To get married
Use it in a practice answer
Try "give someone the benefit of the doubt" in a CELPIP-style Speaking or Writing task. The AI feedback tells you whether your word choice worked.