qualms
What does "qualms" mean?
Qualms are sudden feelings of uneasy doubt, misgiving, or apprehension, especially regarding whether one's actions are morally right. Think of it as a brief, sharp prick of conscience that makes you hesitate or feel uncomfortable about a decision you are about to make. This word is most commonly used in the negative form, "to have no qualms about doing something," which implies that a person feels entirely comfortable or unbothered by an action that others might find questionable. It carries a slightly formal tone and is frequently used in discussions about ethics, business decisions, or personal integrity.
"qualms" in conversation
Discussing a cutthroat business strategy
I don't think we should undercut their prices like that.
I don't think we should undercut their prices like that.
Why not? I have no qualms about doing whatever it takes to win this contract.
Why not? I have no qualms about doing whatever it takes to win this contract.
'No qualms' is used here to show a lack of moral hesitation.
A minor moral dilemma
Are you sure it's okay to keep the extra change the cashier gave us?
Are you sure it's okay to keep the extra change the cashier gave us?
Honestly, I have a few qualms about it, but it's just a dollar.
Honestly, I have a few qualms about it, but it's just a dollar.
Used here to express a slight, nagging sense of guilt.
"qualms" in a sentence
He had no qualms about asking for a raise.
He had no qualms about asking for a raise.
She expressed serious qualms regarding the safety of the new chemical process.
She expressed serious qualms regarding the safety of the new chemical process.
Despite his initial qualms, he accepted the nomination and committed himself to the task ahead.
Despite his initial qualms, he accepted the nomination and committed himself to the task ahead.
