not absolutely sure

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "not absolutely sure" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when expressing uncertainty or doubt about something. Example: "I'm not absolutely sure if we have enough time to complete the project by the deadline."

✓ Grammatically correct

Academia

News & Media

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

57 human-written examples

We're not absolutely sure.

Yale University

Honestly, I'm not absolutely sure.

Harvard University

"I'm not absolutely sure," he said.

The Guardian

I'm not absolutely sure I haven't.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

It may not have had that, we're not absolutely sure.

Yale University

They existed, but we're not absolutely sure about their plan.

Yale University

I think I see, yet I am not absolutely sure.

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

"We're not absolutely sure of either of those two things.

The Guardian

"To be honest, I'm not absolutely sure," she said.

The New York Times

If you plan to do something that you are not absolutely sure is legal, ask first.

Princeton University

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

1 human-written examples

Part of it was preserved maybe more of it was preserved, we're not absolutely sure but at least part of it was preserved.

Yale University

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When responding to a question with "not absolutely sure", provide context or reasoning to explain the uncertainty. This adds clarity and demonstrates thoughtfulness.

Common error

Avoid using "not absolutely sure" repeatedly in a single piece of writing. Vary your language by using synonyms such as "not entirely certain" or "not completely sure" to maintain reader engagement.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "not absolutely sure" functions as a qualifier, modifying a statement to indicate a level of uncertainty or doubt. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's a standard expression used to express lack of complete certainty. It's used to soften assertions.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

41%

Academia

32%

Wiki

9%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

1%

Science

9%

Formal & Business

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "not absolutely sure" is a versatile phrase for expressing uncertainty or doubt. As Ludwig AI confirms, its usage is grammatically correct and common across diverse contexts, including academic, journalistic, and informal settings. While it is a reliable phrase, remember to vary your language and provide context when expressing uncertainty. Alternatives include "not entirely sure", "not completely sure", and "not really sure". Being mindful of these factors ensures clear and nuanced communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

not entirely sure

Replaces "absolutely" with "entirely", softening the certainty.

not completely sure

Substitutes "absolutely" with "completely", indicating a similar level of uncertainty.

not really sure

Uses "really" to express a more casual sense of doubt.

not quite sure

Implies a slight reservation or hesitation.

not entirely convinced

Focuses on a lack of complete persuasion or belief.

somewhat unsure

Uses "somewhat" to suggest a degree of uncertainty.

a bit uncertain

Expresses uncertainty in a less direct manner.

not positive

Indicates a lack of certainty or confidence.

have my doubts

Suggests a skeptical attitude or reservations.

am not certain

A more formal way of expressing uncertainty.

FAQs

What does "not absolutely sure" mean?

The phrase "not absolutely sure" indicates a state of uncertainty or doubt. It means that someone lacks complete confidence or certainty about something.

What can I say instead of "not absolutely sure"?

You can use alternatives like "not entirely sure", "not completely sure", or "not really sure" depending on the context.

Is it okay to use "not absolutely sure" in formal writing?

Yes, "not absolutely sure" is generally acceptable in formal writing, although using more formal alternatives like "am not certain" might be preferred in some contexts.

How can I use "not absolutely sure" in a sentence?

You can use "not absolutely sure" to express uncertainty, such as "I am "not absolutely sure" if that's the correct answer" or "We're "not absolutely sure" about its plan".