Dictionary-enhanced synonyms
Synonyms for “Doubtful” — 5 Other Ways to Say It
Feeling unsure about something or thinking that something might not be true or will not happen.
Meaning of Doubtful
Feeling uncertainty or lack of confidence; questionable or unlikely; not clearly proven or trustworthy.
5 Synonyms for Doubtful — Words Similar to Doubtful
Browse alternative words with their meaning, level, and a real example sentence so you pick the synonym that fits your context.
questionable
/ˈkwɛstʃənəbəl/Not definitely good or certainly true; open to doubt.
Example: That claim has questionable evidence supporting it.
Smart Synonyms for Doubtful — When to Use Each
uncertain
when you lack clear information about a situation
skeptical
when you have reservations and do not easily
questionable
when something validity or reliability is open to
Antonyms of Doubtful — Opposite Words
How to Use Doubtful and Its Synonyms in Sentences
- I am doubtful about the accuracy of this information. B1
- The success of the project is doubtful without proper funding. B2
- It seems doubtful that she will arrive on time. B2
Common Word Choice Mistakes with Doubtful
Not natural: I am doubtful about whether she can finish it.
Better: I am doubtful that she can finish it.
Doubtful that is more direct and natural than doubtful about in this structure.
Frequently Asked Questions About Synonyms of Doubtful
What is another word for "doubtful"?
Common synonyms for "doubtful" include: uncertain, skeptical, unconvinced, questionable, unlikely.
What can I say instead of "doubtful"?
Try one of these alternatives: uncertain, skeptical, unconvinced, questionable, unlikely. Pick the synonym whose register and meaning fits your sentence — see the cards above for definitions and examples.
Is "doubtful" formal or informal?
"doubtful" is generally used in neutral contexts.
When should I use "doubtful" instead of "uncertain"?
Use "doubtful" when you want to keep the exact nuance shown in the meaning section above; switch to "uncertain" when you need a different register, level, or shade of meaning. Compare the cards above to decide.
What are the antonyms of "doubtful"?
Words with the opposite meaning of "doubtful" include: confident, certain, sure, convinced.