beyond a doubt

Idioms  

1. Also, beyond the shadow of a doubt. Certainly so, undoubtedly so, as in Beyond a doubt this is the best view of the valley. This phrase, along with the earlier without doubt (dating from c. 1300), asserts the truth of some statement. W.S. Gilbert's version, in The Gondoliers (1889), is: “Of that there is no manner of doubt—no probable, possible shadow of doubt—no possible doubt whatever.” In this context shadow means “a trace or slight suggestion.” Another variant is beyond a reasonable doubt. This phrase is often used in court when the judge instructs the jury that they must be convinced of the accused's guilt or innocence beyond a reasonable doubt; reasonable here means “logical and rational.” Also see beyond question; no doubt.

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Example Sentences

Michigan’s pummeling of fellow No. 1 seed Arizona on Saturday night, 91-73, proved one thing beyond a doubt.

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 5, 2026

They were, beyond a doubt, the “worst of the worst.”

From Salon • Jul. 24, 2025

Though it’s framed around his nostalgia-induced blues, his exhibition shows, beyond a doubt, that Bitton will always have Paris.

From Los Angeles Times • Feb. 15, 2024

And nobody has been able to prove it beyond a doubt.

From Scientific American • Jun. 6, 2023

Sorcerers existed, beyond a doubt, and it was only too likely that they would cast sleeping spells, and that a mother would care for her daughter in that fierce and tender way.

From "The Amber Spyglass" by Philip Pullman

Related Words

• fine
• okay