are you sure

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "are you sure" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when seeking confirmation or expressing doubt about a statement or decision. Example: "Before we proceed with the plan, are you sure this is the best course of action?"

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

48 human-written examples

FRANKEN: Are -- are you sure?

The Washington Post

Julia, are you sure?

The New York Times

But are you sure?

The Guardian - Opinion

Well, are you sure? 'A.

Cornell University

And she says, are you sure?

Cornell University

"I said, 'Hospital, are you sure?

The Guardian

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

12 human-written examples

But you're not sure, are you?

The New Yorker

How sure are you of your answer?

Health and Quality of Life Outcomes

You're sure you're brilliant.

The New York Times

Be sure you have what you need.

WikiHow

You are not sure.

Johns Hopkins University

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "are you sure" to politely question someone's statement or decision when you suspect an error or oversight. It encourages them to double-check without directly accusing them of being wrong.

Common error

Avoid using "are you sure" sarcastically, as it can come across as condescending or dismissive. Sarcasm can undermine the original intention of seeking genuine clarification.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "are you sure" functions primarily as an interrogative expression used to seek confirmation or express doubt regarding a statement, decision, or piece of information. As Ludwig AI states, this phrase is both correct and usable in written English. The examples confirm its role in questioning the validity of claims or actions.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

42%

Academia

21%

Science

18%

Less common in

Wiki

6%

Formal & Business

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "are you sure" is a very common and grammatically correct way to seek confirmation or express doubt. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's a standard phrase applicable across many writing scenarios. Analysis of sources reveals its usage is prevalent in News & Media, Academic, and Scientific contexts. While alternatives like "are you certain" exist for more formal situations, "are you sure" remains a versatile and frequently used option. It’s important to be mindful of the tone when using this phrase, avoiding sarcasm to ensure clarity and politeness.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

are you certain

Replaces "sure" with "certain", emphasizing a higher degree of confidence.

are you positive

Similar to "are you certain", but slightly less formal.

do you really think so

Shifts from seeking confirmation to expressing doubt.

can you confirm

Focuses on obtaining a confirmation of information.

is that correct

Seeks verification of a statement's accuracy.

do you have any doubts

Inquires about the presence of uncertainty.

is there any chance you're mistaken

Suggests a possibility of error.

would you bet on it

Challenges the confidence level of a statement.

can you swear to it

Asks for a solemn assurance of truth.

what makes you say that

Questions the basis for a statement.

FAQs

How can I rephrase "are you sure" to sound more formal?

In formal settings, consider using phrases like "are you certain", "can you confirm?", or "do you have verification of that information?".

What's the difference between "are you sure" and "are you certain"?

While both phrases seek confirmation, "are you certain" often implies a higher degree of confidence or a more formal context than "are you sure".

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

It's appropriate to use "are you sure" when you want to politely question a statement or decision, particularly when you have reason to believe there might be an error or oversight.

What are some alternatives to "are you sure" that don't sound confrontational?

To avoid sounding confrontational, try using phrases like "do you really think so", "just to double-check", or "could you clarify that for me?"