What does "doubtful" mean?

1. (unlikely to happen) used to say that something is probably not true or will not happen. 2. (feeling uncertain) feeling that you are not sure about something or do not trust it. 3. (suspicious or unreliable) not clearly good, honest, or reliable.

How do you use "doubtful"?

often used with a 'that' clause or 'if/whether' clause. usually followed by the preposition 'about'.

doubtful

adj.

US //ˈdaʊtfəɫ// UK //dˈaʊtfəl// doubt·ful

1 unlikely to happen (adj.)
B1 Intermediate

used to say that something is probably not true or will not happen.

describing an event or outcome that is improbable or unlikely to occur.

Example

It is doubtful that the weather will improve enough for us to go for a walk.

Example

Given the current economic climate, it remains highly doubtful that the company will meet its ambitious growth targets by the end of the quarter.

Usage

often used with a 'that' clause or 'if/whether' clause.
2 feeling uncertain (adj.)
B1 Intermediate

feeling that you are not sure about something or do not trust it.

experiencing or expressing a lack of conviction or certainty; skeptical.

Example

The teacher looked doubtful when the student said the dog ate his homework.

Example

The board members were doubtful about the new marketing strategy, questioning whether the projected returns justified the initial investment.

Usage

usually followed by the preposition 'about'.

Show 1 more senseShow fewer

3 suspicious or unreliable (adj.)
B2 Upper Intermediate

not clearly good, honest, or reliable.

of questionable character, quality, or reliability.

Example

He has a doubtful reputation in the business world, so be careful.

Example

The authenticity of the painting is doubtful, as several experts have pointed out inconsistencies in the brushwork compared to the artist's known style.

Teacher's tip

This sense is often used to describe reputations, claims, or the quality of an object.

Origin

From Middle English doutfull, douteful, equivalent to doubt + -ful.