still not sure

USAGE SUMMARY

"still not sure" is correct and can be used in written English.
You can use it when you are expressing doubt or uncertainty about something. For example, "I have read the instructions twice, but I am still not sure how to assemble the furniture."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

I'm still not sure.

The Guardian - TV & Radio

I am still not sure.

The New York Times

I'm still not sure why.

The New York Times

"And I'm still not sure.

The New York Times - Arts

Even then still not sure.

The New York Times

Kerry's still not sure.

The New York Times - Magazine

We're still not sure.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

He's still not sure why.

The Guardian - Film

She is still not sure.

The New York Times

But I'm still not sure.

The Guardian - Tech

I'm still not sure myself.

The Guardian - Opinion

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "still not sure" to express ongoing uncertainty after a period of consideration or investigation. It implies that the doubt persists despite efforts to resolve it.

Common error

Avoid using "still not sure" when expressing uncertainty for the first time. Instead, use phrases like "not sure yet" or "uncertain" to indicate initial doubt before any consideration has taken place.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "still not sure" functions as a qualifier, typically modifying a subject to indicate a state of ongoing uncertainty or doubt. As Ludwig AI suggests, it expresses doubt or uncertainty about something.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

65%

Academia

20%

Formal & Business

5%

Less common in

Science

5%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "still not sure" is a common and grammatically correct way to express ongoing uncertainty. Ludwig AI confirms its appropriateness in written English for conveying doubt. Its frequency is categorized as "very common", with prevalent use in News & Media and Academia. While versatile, remember that its informal tone may not suit all contexts. For formal writing, consider alternatives like "I remain uncertain". To avoid misuse, use "still not sure" when doubt persists after consideration, not as an initial expression of uncertainty. Ludwig provides numerous real-world examples to illustrate its usage and context, highlighting its role in expressing a lack of certainty even after reflection.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

I'm undecided

Simply states the lack of a decision.

I'm unsure

A shorter, more direct way of saying "still not sure".

I remain uncertain

Uses "remain" instead of "still", implying a continued state of uncertainty.

I'm unconvinced

Expresses a lack of belief or acceptance.

I'm in doubt

Expresses a state of uncertainty or skepticism.

I'm yet to be convinced

Emphasizes the lack of persuasion or conclusive evidence.

I have my doubts

Expresses skepticism or reservations.

I'm on the fence

Indicates indecision between two or more options.

I'm hesitant

Indicates reluctance or unwillingness.

I'm of two minds

Suggests conflicting opinions or feelings.

FAQs

How can I rephrase "still not sure" to sound more formal?

For a more formal tone, consider alternatives like "I remain uncertain", "I am yet to be convinced", or "I harbor doubts depending on the context.

What's a simpler way to say "still not sure"?

A simpler alternative is "unsure". It conveys the same meaning of uncertainty in a more concise manner.

Is it appropriate to use "still not sure" in academic writing?

While grammatically correct, "still not sure" might sound too informal for some academic contexts. Consider using more formal alternatives like "uncertain" or "indecisive" depending on the nuance you wish to convey.

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

"Not sure" indicates a general lack of certainty. "Still not sure" implies that uncertainty persists despite prior consideration or investigation. For example, "I read the manual but I'm "still not sure" how to use this device" suggests previous attempts to understand.