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
  • When officers arrived, the lawsuit alleges Aubrey, 64, was sitting at a RideKC bus stop and was not behaving suspiciously.
    — Ben Wheeler, Kansas City Star, 4 Aug. 2026
  • Somewhat suspiciously, a day after blasting 808 feet worth of homers amid a 4-for-5, 5-RBI day, Goodman sizzling bat was not in the lineup in Sunday’s 8-1 victory that was highlighted by Kyle Freeland’s first career complete game.
    — Kyle Newman, Denver Post, 2 Aug. 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

Browse Nearby Words

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 11 Aug. 2026.

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More from Merriam-Webster on doubtfully

Nglish: Translation of doubtfully for Spanish Speakers

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