Are you sure

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "Are you sure?" is grammatically correct and can be used in written English.
It is typically used as a question to confirm or verify information or a statement. Example: John: "I think the meeting is at 3 pm." Mary: "Are you sure? I thought it was at 2 pm." In this example, Mary is questioning John's statement to make sure she has the correct information about the meeting time.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

Are you sure you are in love?

WikiHow

"Are you sure?" "Yeah".

The New York Times

Are you sure?

The Guardian - Lifestyle

"Are you sure?" "Well.

The New Yorker

"Are you sure?" "Yes.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Are you sure, Dan?

The Guardian - TV & Radio

"Are you sure?" "Well..

The New Yorker

"Are you sure?" "No".

The New Yorker

"Are you sure?" "Eight pounds".

The New Yorker

Are you sure?" He's sure.

Independent

"Are you sure?" he said.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

In dialogue, vary your follow-up questions; rather than repeatedly asking “Are you sure?”, use alternatives such as “Are you certain?” or “Do you confirm?”

Common error

While "Are you sure" is a common and valid phrase, overuse can make dialogue sound repetitive. Diversify your questioning techniques by incorporating indirect questions or different phrasings to maintain reader engagement.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "Are you sure" functions as an interrogative expression, specifically used to seek confirmation or express doubt regarding a statement or belief. As noted by Ludwig, it is grammatically correct and widely used. This makes it a standard way to challenge assumptions, or ask for more details.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

61%

Wiki

2%

Science

0%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "Are you sure" is a grammatically sound and incredibly common way to ask for confirmation or express doubt. Ludwig AI highlights its correctness and frequent appearance in a variety of sources, mostly in "News & Media". While highly versatile, it's important to be mindful of overuse and to vary your questioning techniques to maintain engagement. Related phrases like "are you certain" and "is that correct" can provide subtle nuances in meaning. By understanding its function, purpose, and register, you can effectively use "Are you sure" in your writing and conversations.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

Are you absolutely sure

Emphasizes the degree of certainty being questioned.

Are you quite sure

Slightly more polite and less direct.

Are you certain

Implies a slightly stronger degree of confidence being questioned.

Are you positive

Similar to 'are you certain' but can also imply a challenge.

Is that correct

More direct and focuses on the accuracy of a statement.

Is that right

A simpler and more casual way of seeking confirmation.

Do you confirm

More formal and often used in official settings.

Can you verify that

Focuses on the need for verification or proof.

Do you really think so

Expresses doubt or disagreement.

Tell me again

Asks for repetition to ensure understanding or to buy time to consider.

FAQs

How can I use "Are you sure" in a sentence?

The phrase "Are you sure" is generally used as a question to confirm or verify something. For example, "The meeting is tomorrow at 10 AM." "Are you sure? I thought it was on Wednesday."

What can I say instead of "Are you sure"?

You can use alternatives like "Are you certain?", "Are you positive?", or "Is that correct?" depending on the context.

When is it appropriate to use "Are you sure" in a conversation?

It's appropriate to use "Are you sure" when you want to double-check information, express doubt, or seek reassurance about a decision or statement. For instance, if someone says they locked the door, you might ask, "Are you sure?"

Is "Are you sure about that?" more formal than "Are you sure"?

Adding "about that" makes the phrase slightly more formal. Both are acceptable in most conversations, but "Are you sure about that?" might be preferred in professional settings or when addressing someone with respect.