Im Zweifel
Translation
in case of doubt, when in doubt, if in doubt
Examples
Im Zweifel fragen Sie bitte den Arzt.
In case of doubt, please ask the doctor.
Im Zweifel entscheide ich mich für die Sicherheit.
When in doubt, I choose safety.
Grammar Patterns
((Im Zweifel)), + main clause When in doubt, ... When in doubt, it's better to say nothing.
Similar Words
bei Unsicherheit (in case of uncertainty)
Etymology
'im' is a contraction of 'in dem'. 'Zweifel' means 'doubt'. So, it literally means 'in the doubt'.
Memory Tips
'Zweifel' is related to 'zwei' (two), reflecting the state of being torn between two options, which causes doubt.