it is not believed

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "it is not believed" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when expressing doubt or skepticism about a particular claim or statement. Example: "Despite the evidence presented, it is not believed that the theory holds true."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

However, while the RIPK1 kinase domain is well known for its ability to activate the necroptotic pathway, it is not believed to be required to cause apoptosis (Vandenabeele et al., 2010).

eLife

Some estimates suggest that the missiles North Korea has moved to its east coast could travel 4,000km 2,5000 miles), although it is not believed that the Musudan has been tested before.

BBC

It is not believed that Ms Saberi's prosecution was linked to Mr Ghobadi's work.

Independent

However, it is not believed that the clash with McCaw was the cause of the cut.

Independent

It is not believed the friends were part of an organised tour.

Independent

It is not believed, however, that the government will launch an inquiry.

The Guardian - Tech

It is not believed that penalties will be known until next month.

The New York Times - Sports

Officers reported no significant injuries and it is not believed that any bystanders were hurt.

The Guardian - Sport

It is not believed to include a role for William Roache.

The Guardian - Film

"It is not believed he was involved in any way in the attack".

The New York Times

Premier Foods would not discuss how much it paid the Bond family, but it is not believed to be substantial.

Independent

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "it is not believed", consider providing context or a reason for the disbelief to enhance clarity and credibility.

Common error

While "it is not believed" is grammatically sound, overuse can make writing seem indirect. Opt for stronger, more direct statements when appropriate, such as "experts doubt" or "studies have not confirmed."

Linguistic Context

The phrase "it is not believed" serves as an epistemic marker, indicating a lack of certainty or conviction regarding a particular statement or claim. According to Ludwig AI, this phrase is correct and usable, expressing doubt or skepticism.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Science

40%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "it is not believed" functions as an epistemic marker, conveying doubt or skepticism in a neutral tone. Ludwig AI confirms its correct usage, especially in News & Media and Scientific contexts, as per the analysis. While grammatically sound and very common, writers should be mindful of potential overuse, opting for stronger statements when appropriate. Related alternatives include phrases like "it is doubted" or "it is questionable", offering nuanced ways to express uncertainty.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

it is doubted

This phrase directly replaces "believed" with "doubted", emphasizing a lack of certainty.

it is questionable

This alternative suggests that there are reasons to question the truth or validity of something.

it is not thought

Replaces "believed" with "thought", indicating a general lack of consideration or acceptance.

it is not considered

Suggests a formal or informal assessment that does not support the statement.

it is deemed unlikely

Emphasizes the low probability of something being true or happening.

it is improbable

Directly states the low probability of the statement being factual.

it is speculated

Indicates the statement is based on conjecture rather than evidence.

it is rumored

Implies the statement is based on unverified reports or hearsay.

it remains unproven

Highlights the lack of evidence to support the statement.

there is skepticism

Shifts the focus to the presence of doubt among a group or individual.

FAQs

How can I use "it is not believed" in a sentence?

You can use "it is not believed" to express doubt or skepticism regarding a particular claim. For example, "Despite the initial reports, "it is not believed" that the project will be completed on time".

What's a more direct way to say "it is not believed"?

Alternatives include phrases like "experts doubt", "studies have not confirmed", or "there is skepticism". The best choice depends on the specific context and the degree of certainty you want to convey.

What can I say instead of "it is not believed" to sound more formal?

In formal writing, consider using phrases such as "it is doubted", "it is not considered credible", or "the evidence does not support the claim".

Is "it is not believed" the same as "it is unbelievable"?

No, "it is not believed" expresses doubt or a lack of conviction, while "it is unbelievable" (/s/it+is+unbelievable) expresses astonishment or incredulity. "It is unbelievable" suggests something is too extraordinary to be true.