it is hardly certain

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "it is hardly certain" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to express doubt or uncertainty about a situation or outcome. Example: "While the project is progressing, it is hardly certain that we will meet the deadline."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

3 human-written examples

But it is hardly certain what it entails to approach something in "a Baroque spirit," not to mention how to present that spirit to a contemporary audience.

The New York Times - Arts

Jackson has some notable advantages over Sharpton, and it is hardly certain that his recent difficulties, including the publicly raised questions about his finances, will marginalize him as much as those sources close to Sharpton might anticipate.

The New York Times - Magazine

Aside from that, there is next to nothing until products arrive from Fiat — and it is hardly certain that the Italians can pull off the Chrysler rescue that eluded Daimler and Cerberus, Chrysler's two previous owners.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

56 human-written examples

I had not, of course, but it had that quality, and it's hardly certain where dreams leave off.

The New Yorker

It was hardly certain that Hadi would be strong enough to hold off Zindani, the Islamist cleric; or Ahmar, the Islamist billionaire; or an empowered Al Qaeda.

The New Yorker

Let's assume, though it's hardly certain, that all four of the justices who are today 76 or older leave the Court by 2025.

Huffington Post

The bill's passage is hardly certain, but it has received strong support from women's rights groups, professional organizations and even President Obama, who has called it "a common-sense bill".

The New York Times

Pratt admits that this sunny forecast is hardly certain.

The New York Times - Magazine

The two men's ability to raise a vast amount of cash quickly is hardly certain.

The New York Times - Sports

Yet legislative action is hardly certain: the land bill has already been under discussion for several years.

The New York Times

Sure, some seats will change party control, but a landslide is hardly certain, particularly if Democrats can change their tune and energize their base.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "it is hardly certain" to introduce a statement that contrasts with a previous assertion or expectation, creating a nuanced expression of doubt. For example: "The project is ambitious, but "it is hardly certain" that we will secure all the necessary funding."

Common error

Avoid using "it is hardly certain" when the situation is clearly impossible or highly improbable. Overusing the phrase can dilute its impact. Instead, use stronger terms like "impossible" or "unthinkable" when appropriate.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "it is hardly certain" functions as an adverbial clause expressing uncertainty or doubt. Ludwig AI confirms that the phrase is grammatically correct and suitable for use in written English. It serves to qualify or moderate a statement, indicating that the outcome or truth of something is not assured.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Formal & Business

20%

Science

20%

Less common in

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "it is hardly certain" is a grammatically sound phrase used to convey uncertainty or doubt. Ludwig AI affirms its correctness and usability. While not the most frequent expression, it's commonly found in news and media, as well as formal business contexts. To enhance your writing, consider its nuanced effect on softening assertions, and be mindful of overusing it. Alternatives such as "it is doubtful" or "it is uncertain" can provide variety and precision in expressing different degrees of uncertainty.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

it is far from certain

Emphasizes a greater distance from being certain, suggesting a lower probability.

it is not at all certain

Adds intensity to the uncertainty, stressing the lack of assurance.

it is open to question

Indicates that the matter is debatable and not yet resolved.

it is uncertain

A simpler and more direct synonym for "it is hardly certain".

it remains to be seen

Suggests the outcome is still in the future and dependent on unfolding events.

it is doubtful

A more direct way of expressing uncertainty or disbelief.

it is questionable

Implies there are reasons to doubt or challenge the certainty of something.

there's no guarantee

Shifts the focus to the absence of a guarantee or assurance.

the outcome is in doubt

Focuses on the uncertainty surrounding the final result or consequence.

it's touch and go

Indicates a precarious situation where the outcome is uncertain and could easily go either way.

FAQs

How can I rephrase "it is hardly certain" in a sentence?

You can use alternatives like "it is doubtful", "it is questionable", or "it is uncertain" depending on the level of uncertainty you want to convey.

Is "it is hardly certain" formal or informal?

The phrase "it is hardly certain" can be used in both formal and informal contexts. It is generally considered neutral and appropriate for a wide range of writing and speaking situations.

What does "it is hardly certain" mean?

The phrase "it is hardly certain" means that something is not assured or guaranteed. It implies that there is a significant possibility that something will not happen or that a particular outcome is not likely.

When should I use "it is hardly certain" instead of "it is certain"?

Use "it is hardly certain" when you want to express doubt or uncertainty about a future event or outcome. Use "it is certain" when you are confident that something will happen or is true.