doubtful
adjective
doubt·ful
ˈdau̇t-fəl 
1
a
: lacking a definite opinion, conviction, or determination
They were doubtful about the advantages of the new system.
b
: uncertain in outcome : undecided
The outcome of the election remains doubtful.
2
: marked by qualities that raise doubts about worth, honesty, or validity
of doubtful repute
3
: giving rise to doubt or uncertainty : open to question
It is doubtful that they ever knew what happened.
a doubtful premise
doubtfulness
noun
Synonyms
Examples of doubtful in a Sentence
I tried to reassure them, but they remained doubtful.
The truth of the statements was doubtful.
Their decisions were based on data of doubtful accuracy.
Recent Examples on the Web
The Grizzlies said his return to the game was doubtful because of a right hamstring issue.
—
Khobi Price, Orange County Register, 6 Nov. 2024
Whether the Wildcats can win two more games is doubtful.
—Paul Sullivan, Chicago Tribune, 4 Nov. 2024
While first baseman Freddie Freeman is expected to play, Roberts said shortstop Miguel Rojas is doubtful.
—Jack Harris, Los Angeles Times, 11 Oct. 2024
If not, or if doubtful, then changes should be made sooner rather than later.
—Bill Conerly, Forbes, 29 Oct. 2024
See all Example Sentences for doubtful 
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Khobi Price, Orange County Register, 6 Nov. 2024
Whether the Wildcats can win two more games is doubtful.
—Paul Sullivan, Chicago Tribune, 4 Nov. 2024
While first baseman Freddie Freeman is expected to play, Roberts said shortstop Miguel Rojas is doubtful.
—Jack Harris, Los Angeles Times, 11 Oct. 2024
If not, or if doubtful, then changes should be made sooner rather than later.
—Bill Conerly, Forbes, 29 Oct. 2024
See all Example Sentences for doubtful
Dictionary Entries Near doubtful
Cite this Entry
“Doubtful.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/doubtful. Accessed 26 Nov. 2024.
Copy CitationKids Definition
doubtful
adjective
doubt·ful
ˈdau̇t-fəl
1
: not clear or certain as to fact
a doubtful claim
2
: questionable sense 2
doubtful intentions
3
: undecided in opinion
4
: not certain in outcome
doubtfulness
noun
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