remain skeptical

USAGE SUMMARY

"remain skeptical" is a grammatically correct and commonly used phrase in written English.
It means to maintain a doubtful or uncertain attitude towards something. You can use it in situations where you want to express your doubt or uncertainty about something. Example: Despite the convincing evidence, I remain skeptical of his innocence. In this sentence, the speaker is expressing their doubts about the person's innocence even though there is evidence that suggests otherwise.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

Some lawmakers remain skeptical.

The New York Times

The inspectors remain skeptical.

The New York Times

Some analysts remain skeptical.

The New York Times

Others remain skeptical.

The New York Times

Many analysts remain skeptical.

The New York Times

Many, though, remain skeptical.

The New York Times

But Princetonians remain skeptical.

The New York Times

Some investors remain skeptical.

The New York Times

Some scholars remain skeptical.

The New Yorker

But I remain skeptical.

The New York Times - Magazine

Shareholders remain skeptical.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "remain skeptical" when you want to express a continued feeling of doubt, even after receiving information or evidence. It implies a deliberate decision to withhold full acceptance.

Common error

While "remain skeptical" is widely applicable, be mindful of the context. In very informal settings, consider using alternatives like "I'm not buying it" or "I have my doubts" to maintain a natural tone.

Linguistic Context

Remain skeptical functions as a verb phrase that expresses a continuing state of doubt or disbelief. It indicates that despite evidence or assurances, the subject maintains a questioning or unconvinced attitude. As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase is grammatically correct and frequently used.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

76%

Science

15%

Formal & Business

4%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "remain skeptical" is a widely used and grammatically sound verb phrase signifying a continued state of doubt or disbelief. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and common usage. Predominantly found in news and media, as well as scientific contexts, it conveys reservation or a critical perspective despite presented information. While generally neutral to formal in register, be mindful of the audience when choosing between "remain skeptical" and more informal alternatives. When aiming to indicate a lasting state of uncertainty, the phrase proves a strong choice.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

stay unconvinced

Focuses on maintaining a lack of conviction despite presented information.

hold reservations

Emphasizes maintaining concerns or doubts about something.

harbor doubts

Highlights the presence and persistence of doubts.

not be persuaded

Focuses on the failure to be convinced by an argument or evidence.

keep an open mind

Suggests a willingness to consider other possibilities, but without full acceptance.

beg to differ

Expresses disagreement in a polite or formal manner.

take with a grain of salt

Indicates caution in accepting something as completely true.

view with suspicion

Implies a degree of distrust or doubt about something.

express reservations

Focuses on voicing doubts or concerns.

lack conviction

Highlights the absence of strong belief or certainty.

FAQs

How can I use "remain skeptical" in a sentence?

You can use "remain skeptical" to express doubt even after something has been explained or demonstrated. For example, "Despite the company's assurances, investors "remain skeptical" about its future prospects."

What are some alternatives to "remain skeptical"?

Alternatives include "stay unconvinced", "harbor doubts", or "hold reservations". The best choice depends on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it better to say "remain skeptical" or "remains skeptical"?

"Remain skeptical" is used with plural subjects (e.g., "They remain skeptical"), while "remains skeptical" is used with singular subjects (e.g., "He remains skeptical"). Ensure subject-verb agreement in your sentence.

What's the difference between "remain skeptical" and "become skeptical"?

"Remain skeptical" implies a continuation of doubt from a previous state. "Become skeptical" suggests a shift from a state of belief or neutrality to one of doubt.