be unsure about

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "be unsure about" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when expressing doubt or uncertainty regarding a particular subject or situation. Example: "I tend to be unsure about my decision to move to a new city without a job lined up."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

41 human-written examples

In common parlance, to be uncertain is simply to be unsure about the future.

The New Yorker

Investment management fees are a rather large cost to be unsure about.

The New York Times

Cameron's favourite British contender, Sara Thornton, is said to be unsure about applying.

The Guardian

"Women may receive conflicting advice and be unsure about how alcohol is measured.

The Guardian

Reminders may resemble preaching to the choir, but there are many novices about who may be unsure about procedures.

The New York Times

The public may be unsure about exactly what goes on inside the low-slung limestone courthouse on the single block of Monroe Place in Brooklyn Heights.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

19 human-written examples

She was unsure about this.

The New Yorker

But Rick is unsure about work.

The Washington Post

But he was unsure about his chances.

The New York Times

He's unsure about my power.

The New York Times - Sports

Analysts are unsure about the repercussions.

The Guardian - Opinion

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "be unsure about", ensure that the object of uncertainty is clearly stated to avoid ambiguity. For example, instead of saying "I'm unsure", specify "I'm unsure about the details of the plan".

Common error

Avoid using "be unsure about" in contexts where a definitive statement is required. For instance, do not say "I'm unsure about this being a fact" when "This is not a fact" is more appropriate.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "be unsure about" functions as a predicative adjective followed by a preposition. It describes a state of uncertainty or doubt concerning a particular subject or situation. As Ludwig AI confirms, this phrase is correct and usable in written English.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Science

25%

Academia

20%

Less common in

Formal & Business

3%

Wiki

2%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "be unsure about" is a versatile and commonly used expression for indicating a state of uncertainty or doubt. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is grammatically correct and suitable for a wide range of contexts, from formal academic writing to informal conversations. While alternatives like "feel uncertain about" or "have doubts about" exist, "be unsure about" remains a clear and effective way to communicate a lack of confidence or certainty. Ensure that the subject of uncertainty is clearly defined when using this phrase to avoid any potential ambiguity. As numerous examples from Ludwig demonstrate, this phrase is especially prevalent in news, science, and academic contexts.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

feel uncertain about

Replaces the verb "be" with "feel", emphasizing the emotional aspect of uncertainty.

have doubts about

Uses the noun "doubts" instead of the adjective "unsure", shifting the focus to the existence of reservations.

lack confidence in

Focuses on the absence of confidence rather than the presence of uncertainty.

be hesitant about

Emphasizes a pause or reluctance to act due to uncertainty.

waver on

Implies indecision and fluctuation between different options or opinions.

be indecisive about

Highlights the inability to make a firm decision.

be ambivalent toward

Suggests mixed feelings and contradictory ideas about something.

question

Implies an active examination and possible doubt about something.

be skeptical of

Indicates a tendency to doubt or disbelieve something.

be of two minds about

Expresses having conflicting opinions or feelings about something.

FAQs

How can I use "be unsure about" in a sentence?

You can use "be unsure about" to express uncertainty or a lack of confidence regarding a specific topic. For example, "I tend to be unsure about my decision to move to a new city without a job lined up."

What are some alternatives to "be unsure about"?

Alternatives include "feel uncertain about", "have doubts about", or "lack confidence in". The best choice depends on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it better to say "I am unsure about" or "I am not sure about"?

Both "I am unsure about" and "I am not sure about" are grammatically correct and convey a similar meaning. The choice often comes down to personal preference or stylistic considerations. However, "I am unsure about" can sometimes sound slightly more formal.

When should I avoid using "be unsure about"?

Avoid using "be unsure about" in situations where absolute certainty is required or implied. In those cases, a more definitive statement would be more appropriate. For example, instead of “I be unsure about the safety of doing that”, say “I believe doing that is dangerous”.