- To have doubts, concerns, or unspoken objections about a plan, idea, or person. It implies uncertainty or a lack of full confidence/agreement.
Explanation
Origin
- Comes from the idea of 'reserving' or holding back full agreement or commitment.
- Similar to making a reservation at a hotel (holding a room but not yet occupying it), having mental reservations means holding back full assent.
- Used in this sense since at least the 17th century.
Synonyms & Related Expressions
Alternatives
Slang/Informal:
- Feel iffy about it. (Feeling uncertain or slightly unwell about something)
- Something doesn't sit right with me.
- Not totally sold on it.
- Got a bad feeling about this. (More intuitive/emotional)
More Direct/Blunt:
- I have objections.
- I don't fully agree.
- I see problems with this.
Situational Appropriateness
- Appropriate in both informal and formal contexts. It's a polite way to express doubt or concern without being overly confrontational.
Misunderstanding Warnings
- Can be confused with making a booking (like a hotel or restaurant reservation). Context is key. Ensure learners understand this meaning relates to doubt or uncertainty.
- # MORE IDIOMS & EXPRESSIONS
Examples
- I accepted the job offer, but I still have some reservations about the company culture.
- He seems qualified, but I have reservations about his ability to work in a team.
- Do you have any reservations about the proposed merger?
Dialogue
Manager: So, are we all agreed on launching the new product next month?
Sarah: I mostly agree, but I have some reservations about the marketing budget.
Manager: Okay, Sarah. What are your specific reservations? Let's discuss them.
Sarah: I'm concerned it's not enough to reach our target audience effectively.
Social Media Examples
- LinkedIn Comment: Interesting proposal, though I have reservations about its scalability.
- Forum Post: Thinking of buying this used car, seems like a good deal but I have reservations about the high mileage. Thoughts?
- Tweet: Excited about the potential of AI, but I have serious reservations about ethical implications. #AIethics #futuretech
Response Patterns
- Oh? What are they?
- Why do you say that?
- I understand. It's not a perfect plan.
- Could you elaborate on your reservations?
- Hmm, I didn't think about that.
Common Follow-up Questions/Actions
After someone expresses reservations:
- The natural follow-up is to inquire about the specific nature of the doubts: What reservations? or What are your concerns?
- This usually leads to a discussion exploring the potential problems or downsides.
Conversation Starter
- No. Expresses a feeling or opinion about an existing topic.
Intonation
- Stress usually on have and reservations. HAVE reserVAtions.
- Often spoken thoughtfully, cautiously, or sometimes confidentially.
Generation Differences
- Understood and used by all generations, perhaps slightly more common in professional or more formal communication.
Regional Variations
- Common across all major English-speaking regions.