Question 1

What does "give someone the benefit of the doubt" mean?

Accepted Answer

To trust someone's good intentions despite lacking proof.

Question 2

How do you use "give someone the benefit of the doubt" in a sentence?

Accepted Answer

The evidence was weak, so the committee gave him the benefit of the doubt.

Question 3

Is "give someone the benefit of the doubt" formal or informal?

Accepted Answer

"give someone the benefit of the doubt" is register-neutral — appropriate in both casual and formal contexts. Implies fairness and good faith.