are less sure of

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "are less sure of" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when expressing uncertainty or doubt about something. Example: "Many people are less sure of their decisions when faced with unexpected challenges."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

11 human-written examples

Other analysts are less sure of Mr. Slim's ultimate goals.

The New York Times

"They apparently had other alternatives as well, although we are less sure of them".

The New York Times

They are less sure of Ms. Livni's intentions and horrified at the prospect of Mr. Netanyahu's returning to power.

The New York Times

Because we are less sure of what fiction is "saying," we are less pre-emptively defended against it or biased in its favor.

The New York Times - Books

The filmmakers and the younger cast members are less sure of themselves, lurching from tongue-in-cheek tartness to moist sincerity without finding the right balance of humor and melancholy.

The New York Times

However, some anti-Taliban Afghan commanders have said they are less sure of those reports, indicating there may be disagreements between the Pentagon and its Afghan allies over whether to attack the Taliban redoubt near Baghran.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

47 human-written examples

Redemption, I'm less sure of.

The Guardian - Books

I'm less sure of that.

The New York Times

Ritter, now a member of the UConn board of trustees, was less sure of a connection.

The New York Times - Sports

Dawkins was less sure of the power of opera to convert audiences to the secularist cause.

The Guardian

A sort of shy, hesitant sun learning to be less sure of itself.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When expressing uncertainty, use "are less sure of" to convey a nuanced level of doubt, rather than complete disbelief or ignorance. This suggests a degree of familiarity or understanding, but without full confidence.

Common error

Avoid using "are less sure of" when a definitive statement is required. For instance, in legal or scientific contexts, express clear certainty or use precise, quantifiable uncertainty to avoid ambiguity.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "are less sure of" functions as a qualifier of certainty. It expresses a degree of doubt or uncertainty about something, indicating that there is a lack of complete confidence or knowledge. As Ludwig AI shows, it often modifies opinions or beliefs.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Science

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "are less sure of" is a grammatically sound and frequently used expression to convey uncertainty or doubt. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is effective for expressing a nuanced level of hesitancy rather than complete disbelief. Predominantly found in "News & Media", its neutral register makes it versatile for various communication styles. When using this phrase, remember to avoid it in situations demanding definitive statements and explore alternatives like "are less certain about" for subtle variations in meaning.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

are less certain about

Replaces "sure" with "certain", emphasizing a lack of conviction.

are not convinced of

Indicates a lack of persuasion or belief in something.

are not as confident in

Substitutes "sure" with "confident", focusing on a lack of self-assurance.

have doubts regarding

Uses "doubts" to highlight uncertainty, introducing a more questioning tone.

are skeptical of

Implies a questioning attitude and a lack of trust or belief.

express uncertainty concerning

Formally conveys a lack of certainty or definiteness about a topic.

are hesitant about

Emphasizes a reluctance or unwillingness due to uncertainty.

lack conviction in

Focuses on the absence of a strong belief or firm opinion.

question the validity of

Directly challenges the truth or accuracy of something, showing doubt.

are insecure about

Highlights a feeling of unease or lack of confidence regarding something.

FAQs

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

Use "are less sure of" to express a degree of uncertainty or doubt about something. For example, "Analysts "are less sure of" the company's long-term prospects" indicates a lack of complete confidence in the future of the company.

What can I say instead of "are less sure of"?

You can use alternatives like "are less certain about", "are not as confident in", or "have doubts regarding" depending on the specific nuance you wish to convey.

Is it more formal to say "are less sure of" or "are not as confident about"?

"Are less sure of" is generally considered neutral, while "are not as confident about" can sound slightly more informal. The best choice depends on the context and your desired tone.

When should I avoid using the phrase "are less sure of"?

Avoid using "are less sure of" in situations that require a strong, definitive statement. For instance, in scientific or legal contexts, precise language expressing quantified uncertainty or certainty is usually more appropriate.