doubtless

American  

[dout-lis] / ˈdaʊt lɪs /

adverb

1. without doubt; certainly; surely; unquestionably.

2. probably or presumably.

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adjective

1. free from doubt or uncertainty; certain, sure.

doubtless British  

/ ˈdaʊtlɪs /

adverb

1. certainly

2. probably

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adjective

1. certain; assured

Related Words

Doubtless, undoubtedly, indubitably, unquestionably are adverbs that express certainty. Doubtless, although it sometimes denotes an absolute degree of certainty, more often means “probably,” “presumably,” or “no doubt”: She will doubtless accept the offer. Undoubtedly means “beyond doubt”: undoubtedly the most prolific and popular composer of his time. Indubitably and unquestionably both affirm an unassailable conviction; they differ only in tone, indubitably being appropriate to more formal or learned discourse and unquestionably appropriate in a wider range of contexts and styles: an indubitably (or unquestionably) accurate transliteration of the hieroglyphic text; unquestionably the hottest running back in the league.

Other Word Forms

• doubtlessness noun

Etymology

Origin of doubtless

First recorded in 1300–50, doubtless is from the Middle English word douteles. See doubt, -less

Example Sentences

He will open for India and doubtless hit sixes for fun.

From BBC

But he will doubtless hope to continue a post-season in which refereeing decisions have largely been uncontroversial -- with one major exception.

From Barron's

But the NHS is a top priority for politicians as well as patients, and next week's budget will doubtless see further investment in key health services.

From BBC

But it also doubtless served a psychological need for the president.

From Salon

Other auto makers are doubtless facing the same problem.

From The Wall Street Journal

Related Words

• absolutely
• clearly
• presumably
• surely
• undoubtedly
• unequivocally
• unquestionably