are less certain of

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "are less certain of" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when expressing doubt or uncertainty about a particular subject or situation. Example: "Many scientists are less certain of the long-term effects of climate change than they were a decade ago."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

14 human-written examples

Other civil engineers, while intrigued by the research, are less certain of its significance.

The New York Times

Some of the hospital security officers are less certain of that.

The New York Times

Some Republicans are less certain of the effect Mr. Bloomberg would have on the race.

The New York Times

Scientists are less certain of rainfall, but some models suggest it will go up 5 to 20percentt.

Columbia University

The action means "high priority projects. . . are less certain of funding simply due to lack of revenue," said Martin E. Nohe, chairman of the Northern Virginia Transportation Authority.

The Washington Post

They believe they have put in the highest offer but are less certain of the factors that might be motivating him.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

46 human-written examples

Others were less certain of the purpose of their letters.

The New York Times

It too is less certain of its own identity.

The Guardian - Books

But he was less certain of his fate.

The New York Times

They're less certain of themselves "in the sticks, where it's a bit rocker.

The Guardian

He is less certain of the magnitude of the Internet's impact.

The New York Times - Sports

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

In persuasive writing, use "are less certain of" to acknowledge potential weaknesses in your argument or to present counterarguments fairly before refuting them. This can enhance your credibility and demonstrate thoroughness.

Common error

Avoid using "are less certain of" when a stronger expression of doubt is warranted. If evidence strongly contradicts a claim, consider using phrases like "disprove", "invalidate", or "undermine" to more accurately reflect the level of certainty.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "are less certain of" functions as a predicate adjective, expressing a state of reduced confidence or assurance regarding a particular subject. It is used to convey a nuanced level of uncertainty, as supported by Ludwig's examples.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Science

30%

Academia

10%

Less common in

Wiki

5%

Encyclopedias

3%

Formal & Business

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "are less certain of" is a grammatically correct and usable expression to convey a reduced level of certainty or confidence, often in comparison to a previous state. Ludwig's analysis indicates that the phrase is suitable for neutral to formal contexts, commonly appearing in news, scientific, and academic writing. While the phrase is typically correct as reported by Ludwig AI, it's important to consider the appropriate level of certainty needed for the context and avoid overstating uncertainty when stronger expressions are more fitting. Related phrases like "are not as sure about" or "have some doubts regarding" can offer alternative ways to express similar sentiments with subtle differences in formality and emphasis.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

are not as sure about

Replaces "certain" with "sure", slightly reducing the formality.

have some doubts regarding

Introduces the concept of "doubts", indicating a stronger level of uncertainty.

are not entirely convinced by

Emphasizes a lack of complete belief or acceptance.

are not fully persuaded of

Similar to "convinced", but focuses on the act of persuasion.

are hesitant about

Highlights a reluctance or unwillingness to fully embrace something.

have reservations about

Indicates specific concerns or objections.

are questioning

Focuses on the act of doubting or inquiring.

are skeptical of

Expresses a general distrust or cynicism.

lack confidence in

Highlights a deficit of trust or assurance.

are apprehensive about

Suggests anxiety or unease about a future event or outcome.

FAQs

How can I use "are less certain of" in a sentence?

You can use "are less certain of" to express doubt or uncertainty about something. For example, "Scientists "are less certain of" the effects of long-term exposure to microplastics."

What's a more formal alternative to "are less certain of"?

In a formal context, you might use "have reservations about" or "are not entirely convinced by" instead of "are less certain of".

What is the difference between "are less certain of" and "are unsure of"?

"Are less certain of" implies a comparative reduction in certainty, whereas "are unsure of" simply indicates a lack of sureness. The former suggests there was a prior level of certainty that has diminished.

When should I not use the phrase "are less certain of"?

Avoid using "are less certain of" when a stronger expression of doubt is required or when there is definitive evidence against something. In such cases, use terms like "disprove" or "invalidate".