a little doubtful

USAGE SUMMARY

"a little doubtful" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
You can use it to express that you have some doubts or reservations about something. For example, "I'm a little doubtful about whether this plan will succeed."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

17 human-written examples

That seems a little doubtful, too.

The Economist

He looks a little doubtful.

The Guardian - Music

So I'm just a little doubtful I should say I'm black".

The New York Times

"Thursday might be a little doubtful just because he's got to go play a game, or two," Girardi said.

The New York Times

The assumption that this vessel was made for carrying water on the back seems a little doubtful in view of its shape and the disposition of the handles.

Encyclopedia Britannica

This means that he can drive the car again, although Hampshire seems a little doubtful about the French lady-doctor's credentials.

The Guardian - Film

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

43 human-written examples

"We will see how they are on Thursday, but at this stage it is a little bit doubtful," he added.

BBC

Levein, who will delay naming his team until Tuesday, said: "The other two who are a little bit doubtful are Phil Bardsley, who came off on Saturday with a dead leg, and Alan Hutton has a tight groin but I think he will be okay".

BBC

Erm, I think if I'd had somebody to talk to and answer some of the things I was a little bit doubtful about myself, it would have helped.

BMJ Open

So I am little doubtful that it's okay.

BMC Family Practice

It is interesting but I am a little bit of doubtful how useful the charge moment will be.

F1000Research

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When expressing doubt, follow "a little doubtful" with a specific reason or explanation to provide context for your uncertainty.

Common error

Avoid using "a little doubtful" when you have strong reservations. Opt for stronger phrases like "very skeptical" or "highly improbable" when the situation warrants it.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a little doubtful" functions as an adjectival phrase, modifying a subject to express a moderate degree of uncertainty or skepticism. It's a subjective assessment, indicating the speaker's or writer's reservation. Ludwig AI confirms its correct usage.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

42%

Science

17%

Encyclopedias

10%

Less common in

Wiki

5%

Academia

3%

Formal & Business

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "a little doubtful" is a common and grammatically correct way to express mild skepticism or uncertainty. Ludwig AI confirms its validity for written English. It is most frequently encountered in news articles and scientific publications. When using this phrase, provide context for the doubt to enhance clarity. While versatile, avoid using it to indicate stronger reservations, opting instead for more assertive alternatives. Related phrases include "somewhat skeptical" and "slightly dubious".

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

somewhat skeptical

Indicates a moderate level of doubt or disbelief.

slightly dubious

Expresses a mild reservation or uncertainty about something.

a bit unconvinced

Highlights a lack of complete persuasion or belief.

somewhat uncertain

Suggests a degree of doubt or lack of clarity.

a touch skeptical

Similar to "a little skeptical", it implies a small amount of doubt.

slightly questioning

Implies a mild sense of inquiry or doubt.

a shade dubious

Indicates a very slight reservation or doubt.

mildly suspicious

Suggests a low level of distrust or doubt.

hesitantly believing

Expresses belief with some reservations or doubts.

guardedly optimistic

Indicates optimism tempered with caution and doubt.

FAQs

How can I use "a little doubtful" in a sentence?

You can use "a little doubtful" to express a mild reservation or uncertainty. For example, "I'm "a little doubtful" that the project will be completed on time."

What phrases are similar to "a little doubtful"?

Alternatives include "somewhat skeptical", "slightly dubious", or "a bit unconvinced" depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it more formal to say "a little doubtful" or "somewhat doubtful"?

"Somewhat doubtful" might sound slightly more formal, but "a little doubtful" is perfectly acceptable in many contexts. Choose the phrasing that best fits the overall tone of your writing.

What's the difference between "a little doubtful" and "very doubtful"?

"A little doubtful" expresses a mild reservation or uncertainty, while "very doubtful" indicates a stronger sense of disbelief or skepticism. The choice depends on the degree of your doubt.