benefit of the doubt

== English == === Alternative forms === BOTD (initialism) benefit of doubt (rare) === Pronunciation === === Noun === benefit of the doubt (countable and uncountable, plural benefits of the doubt) A favorable judgement given in the absence of full evidence. A trust that something will turn out or happen as hoped for or expected despite concerns. (cricket) The principle employed by umpires in cases of uncertainty concerning a batsman possibly being out, in which the decision must be in the batsman's favour. ==== Usage notes ==== Almost always used with the verb give. ==== Translations ==== === See also === presumption of innocence