benefit of the doubt

Noun

Meaning

A favorable judgement given in the absence of full evidence.

A trust that something will turn out or happen as hoped for or expected despite concerns.

(cricket) The principle employed by umpires in cases of uncertainty concerning a batsman possibly being out, in which the decision must be in the batsman's favour.

Source: en.wiktionary.org

Examples

Live so that you can at least get the benefit of the doubt. Kin Hubbard

If you are ever in doubt as to whether to kiss a pretty girl, always give her the benefit of the doubt. Thomas Carlyle

I give everyone the benefit of the doubt. Claudia Christian

Men are wonderful. I adore them. They always give you the benefit of the doubt. Gene Tierney

I'm going to give people the benefit of the doubt. Leon Panetta

Quiet people, whether wise or dull, get the benefit of the doubt. American Proverb

Close letter words and terms

benefit of doubt benefit of inventory benefit of society benefit of the population benefit of the public benefit package