doubtfully

Everyday

1. In a way that shows you are not sure about something, or do not quite believe it. tree →
2. In a way that is uncertain or unlikely. tree →

In the lessons

Alice often speaks or looks «doubtfully» in Wonderland, because so many strange things are said to her. Stories use it to show a character is unsure without saying «I don't believe you»: «"Are you sure?" she asked doubtfully.» Often with «say», «look», «ask», «shake your head».

Examples

• «Is this the right way?» asked Alice doubtfully. tree →
• Mum looked doubtfully at the burnt toast. tree →
• He doubtfully tasted the strange green soup. tree →
• «I suppose it might work,» she said doubtfully. tree →
• The Mole looked doubtfully at the wobbly boat. tree →
• The dog sniffed the new food doubtfully. tree →
• “There is a way,” said the servant doubtfully. tree →

Note

From «doubt» + «-ful» + «-ly». The b in «doubt» is silent: «DOWT-ful-ee». Spelled with double l at the end.