not for sure

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "not for sure" is correct and usable in written English.
It is often used to express uncertainty or a lack of confidence in a statement. It can also be used to indicate that something is not definite or confirmed. Example: "I'm not for sure if I locked the door before leaving the house."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

28 human-written examples

Not for sure.

The New York Times

"But that is not for sure".

The New York Times - Magazine

Well, you know, it's not for sure.

The New Yorker

We think it will be, but that's not for sure.

The New York Times

"I'm hoping," Mike D'Antoni said, "but that's not for sure".

The New York Times - Sports

Then, he said maybe, but not for sure.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

29 human-written examples

Even that isn't for sure.

Independent

Mother: "I do not know for sure whether the hospital was full or not.

Global Health Action

Not Hal, for sure.

The New Yorker

How could they not know for sure?

The New Yorker

"It's not problem, for sure.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "not for sure" to express uncertainty when you want to avoid stronger terms like "impossible" or "unlikely". It's a balanced way to acknowledge doubt without being overly negative.

Common error

While "not for sure" is acceptable, in formal writing or academic papers, consider using more precise and sophisticated vocabulary to convey uncertainty. Alternatives like "uncertain", "doubtful", or "inconclusive" might be more appropriate.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "not for sure" functions as an adverbial phrase, modifying a verb or clause to express a degree of uncertainty or doubt. Ludwig examples illustrate its use in qualifying statements and predictions. Ludwig AI classifies it as correct and usable in written English, commonly indicating a lack of definiteness.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

56%

Wiki

15%

Science

11%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "not for sure" is a grammatically sound and frequently used phrase to express uncertainty. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness. While generally acceptable, more formal contexts may benefit from alternatives like "uncertain" or "doubtful". The phrase is prominently featured in news and media, demonstrating its relevance in conveying tentative information. It's a balanced way to express doubt without resorting to stronger, negative terms.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

uncertain

This is a direct adjective replacement, implying a lack of certainty.

not certain

Uses a more formal synonym for "sure", maintaining the negative connotation.

doubtful

Expresses a feeling of doubt or skepticism.

not definite

Highlights the lack of definiteness or finality.

questionable

Suggests that something is open to question or doubt.

up in the air

An idiomatic expression indicating that the outcome is still undecided.

unclear

Emphasizes the lack of clarity or understanding.

it's possible

Indicates a possibility but not a certainty.

not necessarily

Implies that something may or may not be the case.

it remains to be seen

Suggests that the outcome will only be known in the future.

FAQs

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

You can use "not for sure" to express uncertainty about a future event or current situation. For example: "I am "not for sure" if I will be able to attend the meeting tomorrow."

What are some alternatives to "not for sure"?

Some alternatives to "not for sure" include "uncertain", "doubtful", or "not certain". The best choice depends on the specific context.

Is "not for sure" grammatically correct?

Yes, "not for sure" is grammatically correct and commonly used in spoken and written English, although it might be considered slightly informal.

What is the difference between "not for sure" and "uncertain"?

"Not for sure" is a more conversational way of expressing uncertainty. "Uncertain" is a more formal and direct way to convey the same meaning.