Qualms

Qualms refers to uneasy feelings or doubts about a particular action, decision, or belief. The term can describe a momentary sense of physical queasiness as well as a more persistent moral or ethical reservation. In ordinary usage, people say they have qualms about lying, breaking a promise, or taking a risky step, and they may act with or without qualms depending on the strength of their concerns.

Etymology and history: Qualm appears in English in the early modern period with senses related to nausea or discomfort; the exact linguistic origin is uncertain. The broader sense of moral or conscientious doubt developed later and is now common in both spoken and written English.

Usage: Common phrases include “to have qualms about” and “to act without qualms.” Qualms can be described as moral scruples or practical hesitations. They differ from guilt or fear in that they denote hesitation rooted in evaluation of consequences, duties, or personal values rather than emotion alone.

Context and culture: In literature and journalism, qualms are often invoked to show a character’s conscience or to frame ethical decision making. They may motivate reform, whistleblowing, or caution in risky ventures.

See also: doubt, scruple, misgiving, conscience, hesitation.