# doubtful

/ˈdaʊtfəɫ/ (US) · /dˈaʊtfəl/ (UK)

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/doubtful
Updated: 2026-06-20

## Senses

### 1. unlikely to happen

adjective · CEFR B1

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

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

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

adjective · CEFR B1

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

For teachers: experiencing or expressing a lack of conviction or certainty; skeptical.

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

### 3. suspicious or unreliable

adjective · CEFR B2

not clearly good, honest, or reliable.

For teachers: of questionable character, quality, or reliability.

- He has a doubtful reputation in the business world, so be careful.
- The authenticity of the painting is doubtful, as several experts have pointed out inconsistencies in the brushwork compared to the artist's known style.

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

## Examples

- I am doubtful about his promise.
- She remained doubtful of the plan until she saw the detailed budget.
- The committee expressed deep doubts regarding the feasibility of the proposal, citing insufficient data and potential risks.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.