not so sure

USAGE SUMMARY

"not so sure" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when expressing uncertainty or doubt. For example, "I'm not so sure about that."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

42 human-written examples

Ayoade's not so sure.

Independent

"I'm not so sure.

The New York Times - Magazine

Not so sure.

Forbes

India is not so sure.

The Economist

Fukuda was not so sure.

The New Yorker

Outsiders are not so sure.

The Economist

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

18 human-written examples

Toma wasn't so sure.

The New York Times - Sports

McIlroy isn't so sure.

Independent

I wasn't so sure.

The New York Times - Magazine

Samuels wasn't so sure.

The New Yorker

Deller isn't so sure.

Independent

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "not so sure" to express mild doubt or uncertainty, especially when you don't want to sound overly negative or confrontational. It's a polite way to disagree or express reservations.

Common error

While "not so sure" is acceptable, in formal contexts, consider using more direct and assertive language to convey your doubts. Phrases like "I am skeptical" or "I question this assumption" might be more appropriate.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "not so sure" functions as an adjectival phrase expressing a state of uncertainty or doubt. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is correct and commonly used. It modifies an implied subject (often "I" or "we"), indicating a lack of complete confidence in a statement or situation.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

62%

Science

23%

Formal & Business

15%

Less common in

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "not so sure" is a common and grammatically correct phrase used to express mild doubt or uncertainty. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's widely accepted in various contexts, particularly in news and media. While it's suitable for expressing reservations without being confrontational, more formal situations might benefit from stronger alternatives like "I am skeptical" or "I have reservations". Remember to choose the best phrasing to effectively convey your intended level of certainty or uncertainty. "Not so sure" offers a useful tool for expressing subtle disagreement while maintaining a polite tone.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

I'm not convinced

Indicates a lack of persuasion, suggesting further evidence is needed.

I have my doubts

Expresses existing reservations or hesitations.

I'm uncertain

Replaces "not so sure" with a direct statement of uncertainty.

I'm hesitant to say

Highlights reluctance, implying a lack of complete certainty.

I doubt it

Expresses stronger skepticism than "not so sure".

I'm skeptical

Similar to 'I doubt it', but implies a more reasoned disbelief.

I'm rather dubious

Similar to 'I'm skeptical', but may carry a slightly stronger connotation of disbelief.

I'm of two minds

Indicates conflicting opinions or uncertainty in decision-making.

I'm on the fence

Indicates indecision or a lack of a firm opinion.

It's debatable

Suggests the topic is open to discussion and not definitively settled.

FAQs

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

You can use "not so sure" to express uncertainty or mild disagreement. For example, "I like the plan, but I'm "not so sure" about the budget implications."

What's a more formal alternative to "not so sure"?

In formal writing, consider alternatives like "I am skeptical", "I have reservations", or "I am unconvinced" to convey doubt in a more professional tone.

Is it grammatically correct to say "not so sure"?

Yes, "not so sure" is a grammatically acceptable phrase used to express uncertainty or doubt. It's commonly used in informal conversation and writing.

What's the difference between "not sure" and "not so sure"?

"Not sure" simply indicates a lack of certainty. "Not so sure" implies a slightly stronger sense of doubt or skepticism, suggesting you have reasons to question something.