doubtfully

adverb

Definition of doubtfullynext
as in suspiciously
with distrust we followed our guide doubtfully, keeping our eyes open at all times

Synonyms & Similar Words

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Antonyms & Near Antonyms

Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of doubtfully But in this case, the story is very doubtfully true. — David Frum, The Atlantic, 21 May 2026
Recent Examples of Synonyms for doubtfully
  1. suspiciously
  2. incredulously
Adverb
  • Xi Jinping’s description of AI development as a symphony, rather than a solo performance, sounds suspiciously like soft-power language, recasting Beijing as the inclusive convenor of countries that Western institutions have often neglected.
    — Tim Bajarin, Forbes.com, 28 July 2026
  • In addition, Chris Coy plays a suspiciously nervous truck driver, Waylon Sanders; Cary Christopher plays a gifted child named Noah; Laura Linney will play a senior Guardian; and Paula Patton will appear in an as-yet-undisclosed guest role.
    — ArsTechnica, ArsTechnica, 25 July 2026
Definition of suspiciously
Adverb
  • Jones asked his players incredulously.
    — Jane Tyska, Mercury News, 15 Mar. 2026
  • Kizzi adds to his act by pretending to be a devoted fan while V looks on incredulously.
    — Rafaela Bassili, Vulture, 13 Jan. 2026
Definition of incredulously

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doubtful
doubtfully
doubtfulness
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Cite this Entry

“Doubtfully.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/doubtfully. Accessed 5 Aug. 2026.

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More from Merriam-Webster on doubtfully

Nglish: Translation of doubtfully for Spanish Speakers

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