a bit dubious

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a bit dubious" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when expressing uncertainty or skepticism about something. Example: "The evidence presented in the report seems a bit dubious, and I think we need to investigate further."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

52 human-written examples

And in goal, Ben Bishop remains, unfortunately, a bit dubious.

The Guardian - Sport

Even some Wall Street executives concede that all the scrutiny makes proprietary trading a bit dubious.

The New York Times

Sorry to sound a bit dubious – but don't the trees get in the way?

The Guardian - Travel

I'm excited about the show but also feel a bit dubious.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

As a thesis or prediction about how polls behave, this notion is a bit dubious, especially in general elections.

The New York Times

As a thesis or a prediction about how polls behave, this notion is a bit dubious, especially in general elections.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

8 human-written examples

A number of cycles in a row now, any one poll is often a little bit dubious, but when you average them together they seem to do a better job of kind of calibrating where the average voter is".

The New York Times

"There was one woman in the Isle of Wight who always put a little poem at the end, the poetry was a little bit dubious, but the sentiment good".

The Guardian

He told Cricinfo: "I was probably a little bit dubious – and initially after the Test I thought it might be a little bit difficult.

The Guardian - Sport

"You can understand why I am a little bit dubious about T.S.A.," he said.

The New York Times

McInerney's latest collection of stories, The Last Bachelor, is full of characters just like these: affected, shiny, a little bit dubious.

The Guardian - Books

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "a bit dubious" when you want to express a mild form of doubt or skepticism without being overly critical or confrontational. It's a good way to introduce uncertainty into a discussion gently.

Common error

While "a bit dubious" is acceptable, overuse in formal writing can make your tone seem less decisive. Opt for stronger, more precise language like "questionable" or "unsubstantiated" to maintain a professional tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a bit dubious" functions as an adjectival phrase, modifying a noun or pronoun to express a degree of doubt or uncertainty. According to Ludwig, the phrase is correct and usable in written English. Examples show it being used to qualify claims, predictions, and assessments.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

78%

Science

12%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "a bit dubious" is a versatile and frequently used adjectival phrase that conveys a sense of mild doubt or skepticism. Ludwig AI confirms that it is grammatically correct and usable in various contexts. Predominantly found in news and media, it serves to soften disagreements or express uncertainty without being overly critical. When writing, consider the level of formality required and choose more precise language if necessary, but in general, "a bit dubious" is a reliable way to introduce a touch of skepticism into your writing or speech.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a bit doubtful

Focuses more on uncertainty or disbelief.

a bit skeptical

Implies a questioning attitude and a tendency not to believe something without proof.

a bit questionable

Suggests that something may not be entirely valid or appropriate.

a bit suspect

Indicates that something raises suspicion or mistrust.

a bit uncertain

Emphasizes a lack of sureness or confidence.

a bit fishy

Informal way to say something seems dishonest or deceitful.

a bit shady

Suggests something is of questionable legality or ethics.

a bit ambiguous

Implies that something is open to more than one interpretation.

a bit arguable

Focuses on the point that the claim is not universally agreed and has the possibility of being challenged.

a bit implausible

Suggests that something is difficult to believe.

FAQs

What does "a bit dubious" mean?

The phrase "a bit dubious" means slightly doubtful or questionable. It's used to express mild skepticism or uncertainty about something.

How can I use "a bit dubious" in a sentence?

You can use "a bit dubious" to express your mild doubt about something. For example: "I'm "a bit dubious" about his claims, as he has been known to exaggerate in the past."

What can I say instead of "a bit dubious"?

You can use alternatives like "a bit doubtful", "a bit skeptical", or "a bit questionable" depending on the context.

What's the difference between "a bit dubious" and "a bit suspicious"?

"A bit dubious" suggests uncertainty or mild doubt, while "a bit suspicious" implies a stronger feeling that something is wrong or dishonest. The latter suggests mistrust.