DOUBT vs HESITATE vs HAVE A QUESTION
DOUBT = uncertainty about truth, HESITATE = pause/reluctance before action, HAVE A QUESTION = request for information
Question 1
Choose the correct word or phrase to complete the sentence.
Teacher, I have _______ about question number 5 on the homework.
Context: Requesting information
🧠Why This Mistake Happens
The Problem:
Spanish 'tener una duda' literally means 'have a doubt' but actually means 'have a question' in English
Linguistic Reason:
Spanish uses 'tener una duda' to request information, which directly translates to 'have a doubt' but should be 'have a question' in English. Spanish speakers also confuse 'dudar' (doubt - uncertainty about truth) with 'vacilar/dudar' (hesitate - pause/reluctance before action) and with 'tener una pregunta' (have a question - request for information).
Spanish Examples:
Spanish: Tengo una duda sobre la tarea / Dudo que sea verdad / No dudes en llamarme
Spanish 'tener una duda' = English 'have a question'. Spanish 'dudar' = English 'doubt'. Spanish 'no dudes/vaciles' = English 'don't hesitate'.
💡 Quick Rule:
DOUBT = uncertainty about truth, HESITATE = pause/reluctance before action, HAVE A QUESTION = request for information
Exceptions:
- • You can say 'I have doubts about...' (plural noun) to express uncertainty
- • HESITATE can take 'to + infinitive': 'I hesitate to criticize'
Common Examples:
I have a doubt about the homework
I have a question about the homework
Requesting information
Don't doubt to call me
Don't hesitate to call me
Encouraging action
I hesitate that story is true
I doubt that story is true
Expressing disbelief
Do you have a doubt about my abilities?
Do you doubt my abilities?
Questioning certainty
💡 Tips for Success
- •Use DOUBT when you're uncertain if something is true (not sure about facts)
- •Use HESITATE when you pause or are reluctant before doing something (delay in action)
- •Use HAVE A QUESTION when you want information or clarification (Spanish: "tener una duda")
- •Remember: "Don't hesitate to..." is a common phrase meaning "Don't be reluctant to..."
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