we are dubious

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "we are dubious" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when expressing uncertainty or skepticism about a particular situation or claim. Example: "After reviewing the evidence presented, we are dubious about the validity of the findings."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

7 human-written examples

We are dubious about this notion.

The New Yorker

"We are dubious whether customers really want all the things that people are imagining that they want".

The Economist

"We are dubious that this time would be any different, but will await the details," he said in a statement.

The New York Times

"We are dubious that customers really want all the things that people are imagining that they want".

The Economist

"However, we are dubious of the underlying motivations that bring this to present light after 17 years, and we will not take part in stoking its coals.

The Guardian - Film

The recent rate of improvement in the labour market has been both impressive and surprising, but we are dubious that unemployment will keep falling at such a rapid rate..

The Guardian - Business

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

52 human-written examples

We were dubious -- go shopping at the city's produce terminal?

The New York Times - Food

But we're dubious that simply placing a cap on jury awards can solve such a complex problem.

The New York Times

Just one time you would like Israel to say, "You know, Mr. President, we're dubious that a continued settlement freeze will have an impact.

The New York Times

We were dubious about starting avalanches so we took the icy route, which was unnerving at times, but ultimately led us to one of the best runs of the season.

The Guardian - Travel

"Either he's lying or making himself sick … We're dubious!!" "We", however, sail on regardless, only accruing more visitors and watching as what used to be called the mainstream media waddle dutifully behind (I'm still spellbound that last year the Daily Telegraph ran his story that Michelle Obama was pregnant).

The Guardian - Opinion

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "we are dubious" when you want to express a polite but firm sense of doubt or skepticism. It's more nuanced than a flat disagreement.

Common error

Don't confuse "dubious" with "ambiguous". "Dubious" means doubtful or questionable, while "ambiguous" means unclear or having multiple interpretations. Using "we are ambiguous" when you mean "we are dubious" changes the meaning entirely.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "we are dubious" functions as a statement expressing doubt or skepticism. It typically modifies an implied object (e.g., a claim, a proposal), indicating a lack of belief or confidence. Ludwig provides examples where this phrase introduces a contrasting viewpoint or reservation.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Science

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Less common in

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "we are dubious" is a grammatically correct and usable expression to convey doubt or skepticism, as confirmed by Ludwig AI. While not extremely common, it finds its place in various contexts, especially within News & Media. It's more nuanced than a simple disagreement, offering a polite yet firm way to express reservations. As noted in the writing guidance, be careful not to confuse "dubious" with "ambiguous". For alternatives, consider "we are skeptical" or "we have our doubts" for similar meanings.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

we have our doubts

Replaces "dubious" with a more common expression indicating uncertainty.

we are skeptical

"Skeptical" is a direct synonym for "dubious", offering a slightly more formal tone.

we are not convinced

Emphasizes a lack of belief or persuasion.

we find that hard to believe

Expresses disbelief in a more conversational manner.

we question that

Highlights the act of doubting or challenging something.

we view that with suspicion

Indicates a distrustful perspective.

we remain unconvinced

Similar to "we are not convinced" but suggests a continued state of doubt.

we are hesitant to accept that

Conveys reluctance or unwillingness to believe something.

we harbor reservations

A more formal way of expressing doubts or concerns.

we're inclined to disagree

Suggests disagreement stemming from doubt or skepticism.

FAQs

What does "we are dubious" mean?

The phrase "we are dubious" means that a group or entity is doubtful or skeptical about something. It indicates a lack of conviction or belief.

How can I use "we are dubious" in a sentence?

You can use "we are dubious" to express doubt about a claim, a plan, or a piece of information. For example, "After reviewing the data, "we are dubious" about the project's success."

What are some alternatives to "we are dubious"?

Some alternatives include "we are skeptical", "we have our doubts", or "we are not convinced". The best choice depends on the specific context and the level of formality you want to convey.

Is it better to say "we are dubious" or "we are doubtful"?

"We are dubious" and "we are doubtful" are very similar in meaning, but "dubious" often implies a stronger sense of skepticism or suspicion. "Doubtful" can simply mean uncertain.