Kahtluste

Kahtluste (Estonian for “doubts”) is a plural noun meaning doubts or suspicions about the truth, reliability, or outcome of something. It describes a feeling of uncertainty or concern that information, beliefs, or plans may not be accurate. The term can be used in everyday language as well as in formal writing.

Etymology and forms: The word derives from kahtlus, meaning doubt, and Kahtlema, “to doubt.” Kahtluste is the genitive plural form used in phrases such as kahtluste põhjused (reasons for doubts) or kahtluste allikad (sources of doubts). The term belongs to the Baltic Finnic language family and is common in Estonian discourse.

Usage and nuance: Kahtluste signals uncertainty that may warrant further verification rather than outright disbelief. It is used across domains—journalism, science, law, and everyday conversation—to indicate questions about data, assumptions, or conclusions. In personal speech, it can express cautious caution; in professional contexts, it frames issues that require evidence, clarification, or reevaluation.

Examples: Kahtluste põhjused (reasons for doubts), kahtluste hajutamine (dispelling doubts), kahtluste allikad (sources of doubt). Phrases like “kahtluste tõttu” convey that actions or decisions are influenced by doubts, while “kahtluste puudumine” denotes an absence of doubts.

See also: kahtlus, skepsis, epistemoloogia. These related terms cover general doubt, skepticism, and the study of knowledge, providing broader context for the concept of kahtluste.