however doubtful

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "however doubtful" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to express uncertainty or skepticism about a statement or situation, often as a transition in a sentence. Example: "The evidence presented was compelling; however doubtful it may seem, it cannot be ignored."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

15 human-written examples

And however doubtful one may feel about the purity of the collector's motives, I like collections.

The Guardian - Opinion

My three dinner companions are, however, doubtful whether that can be achieved.

The Guardian

It is, however, doubtful whether the use of such terms as nationalism, particularism, or exclusivism are of any great help in understanding the situation.

Encyclopedia Britannica

(How would you answer if the army asked how you like their rule?) However doubtful the poll results, many people do seem prepared to let the junta try improving governance and reboot the political system.

The Economist

But under the Internet Tax Freedom Act they will have to wait until next year to do so.All the same, the "tax break", however doubtful, and however unfair to the (mainly less-well-off) people who do not have access to the Internet, has given the online-only retailers a big boost.

The Economist

The LUS is logically capable in detecting superficial pneumonia, but it remains, however, doubtful in detecting deep alveolar lesions [39].

Critical Ultrasound Journal

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

44 human-written examples

However, occasional doubtful giant cells are found, but very rarely are all the giant cells in a single slide doubtful.

Clinical Orthopaedics and Related Research

Some lawmakers, however, seemed doubtful that that would happen.

The New York Times

Local commanders' commitment to the process, however, remains doubtful.

The Economist

Human rights advocates, however, are doubtful that any would take the initiative.

The New York Times

Some experts, however, remained doubtful of the brand's claims of high precision.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "however doubtful" to introduce a contrasting idea or concession, even when you harbor some reservations. This adds nuance and acknowledges potential counterarguments.

Common error

Avoid using "however doubtful" as a complete sentence or without a clear connection to the preceding statement. It functions best as a connector, not an independent assertion.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "however doubtful" functions as an adverbial phrase, modifying the verb or clause that follows. It introduces a note of skepticism or uncertainty, acting as a concession before presenting further information or argument, as shown in Ludwig's examples.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

30%

Science

45%

Encyclopedias

15%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Reference

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "however doubtful" serves as a concessive adverbial phrase, introducing uncertainty or skepticism while proceeding with a statement. Ludwig AI indicates that it is grammatically correct and suitable for neutral to formal contexts. It's most commonly found in science, news, and encyclopedic sources. When using this phrase, ensure it logically connects to the surrounding text, adding nuance rather than standing alone. Consider alternatives like "despite any reservations" for similar effect but slightly varied tone.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

notwithstanding the doubts

Formally acknowledges the existence of misgivings while proceeding.

even if questionable

Emphasizes the possibility of being challenged or refuted.

despite potential flaws

Highlights the possible weaknesses or imperfections.

regardless of skepticism

Highlights the act of disbelief or questioning.

despite any reservations

Focuses on overcoming hesitations, rather than highlighting the doubts themselves.

in spite of suspicions

Emphasizes a belief or feeling that something is wrong or that someone is guilty.

though open to question

Suggests that something is not settled and can be further discussed.

though uncertainty exists

Directly acknowledges the lack of sureness or clarity.

although unlikely

Points out the low probability of something happening or being true.

even if improbable

Focuses on how unlikely or rare something is.

FAQs

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

Use "however doubtful" to introduce a contrasting point or acknowledge uncertainty before presenting further information. For example, "The data seems conclusive; "however doubtful", further investigation is necessary."

What's a more formal alternative to "however doubtful"?

A more formal alternative could be "notwithstanding the doubts" or "despite any reservations". These phrases offer a similar meaning but carry a more elevated tone.

Is it better to use "although doubtful" or "however doubtful"?

Both "although doubtful" and "however doubtful" are grammatically correct. "However doubtful" often introduces a stronger sense of contrast or concession compared to "although doubtful".

When is it appropriate to use "however doubtful"?

It is appropriate to use "however doubtful" when you want to acknowledge potential skepticism or uncertainty about a claim, but still want to proceed with the discussion or analysis. Consider using alternatives such as "despite any reservations" depending on the desired nuance.