not really confident

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "not really confident" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when expressing a lack of certainty or assurance about something. Example: "I’m not really confident in my ability to complete this project on time."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

9 human-written examples

In the beginning, you're not really confident.

The New York Times - Tech

"I am not really confident, but I am very, very hopeful," he said.

The New York Times

"They are not really confident in her determination of time," the official said.

The New York Times

"They're not really confident about any deals, and no one can give them advice about what they should be telling their customers".

The New York Times

"I'm not really confident that what the Tory party are saying can be managed at the end of the day, so that's why we have decided what we are going to do".

The Guardian

Seventy-nine students (80%) were from University A and 20 (20%) were from University B. Fifty-four students (55%) reported that they were very or moderately confident in their knowledge of radiation dose; 45 students (45%) reported that they were not really confident or, 'do not know'.

Insights into Imaging

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

51 human-written examples

"We aren't really confident yet," Mr. Johnston said.

The New York Times

"I wasn't really confident on going out and doing the usual teenage things.

BBC

When I got to the beginning of high school I wasn't really confident on the left side.

Forbes

Now I'm very aware of damaging rhetoric, but back then if I wasn't really confident about what I was seeing, I waited around for a long time.

Vice

I hadn't seen him in a long time and hadn't spoken to him and wasn't really confident seeing him and had to have a little bit of distance in the conversation.

BMC Infectious Diseases

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "not really confident", consider adding context to clarify the source of your uncertainty. For example, specify what you're not confident about or why you feel that way.

Common error

Avoid stacking too many qualifiers with "not really confident", as it can weaken your statement. For instance, instead of saying 'I'm not really very confident,' consider choosing a stronger, more direct expression.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "not really confident" functions as an adjective phrase modifying a subject, expressing a lack of strong assurance or certainty. Ludwig indicates it is correct and usable in English, effectively softening a statement of doubt.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

75%

Science

15%

Wiki

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "not really confident" serves as a common and grammatically sound way to express a mitigated lack of assurance. Ludwig confirms its correctness and utility across various contexts, particularly in News & Media, Science, and Wiki sources. While alternatives like "somewhat unassured" or "feeling unsure" exist, "not really confident" strikes a balance between informality and professional communication. When using this phrase, it's crucial to provide context to clarify the source of uncertainty and avoid overusing hedging language to maintain clarity and impact.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

feeling unsure

Emphasizes the subjective experience of uncertainty.

not entirely certain

Emphasizes the absence of complete certainty; more formal.

not fully convinced

Similar to 'not entirely certain', but focuses on persuasion.

a bit doubtful

Indicates a degree of skepticism or hesitation; more informal.

somewhat unassured

Implies a slight lack of confidence; uses more formal vocabulary.

lacking conviction

Highlights the absence of strong belief or persuasion.

a little insecure

Implies a lack of self-assurance or a feeling of vulnerability.

slightly apprehensive

Indicates a mild sense of anxiety or unease; focuses on emotion.

not that assertive

Highlights the absence of a forceful or confident demeanor.

not so optimistic

Shifts the focus to a less positive outlook or expectation.

FAQs

How can I use "not really confident" in a sentence?

You can use "not really confident" to express a lack of assurance or certainty. For example, "I'm "not really confident" about the outcome of the game." or "They are "not really confident" in her determination."

What are some alternatives to "not really confident"?

Alternatives include "somewhat unassured", "not entirely certain", or "feeling unsure" depending on the specific context and nuance you want to convey.

Is it better to say "not very confident" or "not really confident"?

Both "not very confident" and "not really confident" are acceptable, but "not really confident" can sound slightly more informal and conversational. The choice depends on the desired tone and context.

What's the difference between "not confident" and "not really confident"?

Adding "really" softens the statement, indicating a slightly lesser degree of lacking confidence. "Not confident" is a more direct and definitive expression of a lack of confidence, while "not really confident" introduces a degree of hesitancy.