What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
dicey
Example
It's a bit dicey to invest all your money in one stock. [dicey: adjective]
Example
The weather looks dicey, so we should postpone our camping trip. [dicey: adjective]
doubtful
Example
It's doubtful that we'll finish the project on time. [doubtful: adjective]
Example
I'm doubtful about his story, it doesn't seem plausible. [doubtful: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Doubtful is more commonly used than dicey in written language, especially in academic or professional contexts. Dicey is more common in spoken language, particularly in informal conversations.
Whatโs the difference in the tone of formality between dicey and doubtful?
Doubtful is generally considered more formal than dicey. While doubtful can be used in both formal and informal contexts, dicey is typically used in casual or colloquial settings.
