10 Phrases to Say “I’m Not Convinced”
In professional discussions or debates, it’s often necessary to express doubt or disagreement without sounding rude or dismissive. Simply saying “I don’t believe you” can stop the conversation cold. Instead, you need phrases that signal you are reserving judgment and need more evidence to be persuaded. Mastering these 10 phrases to say “I’m not convinced” will help you sound thoughtful, analytical, and professional when expressing skepticism.
We’ve organized these phrases based on the level of directness and formality.
Polite and Indirect Doubt 🤔
These phrases signal that you are not fully persuaded but are open to hearing more information or analysis.
1. I have some reservations about that. A reservation is a doubt or a qualification. This is a professional and polite way to express initial hesitation or concern about an idea.
- Meaning: You have specific doubts or concerns that need to be addressed before you can agree.
- Example: “We should switch all production overseas.” — “I have some reservations about that regarding quality control.”
2. I’m not entirely sold on that idea yet. To be sold on an idea means to be convinced of its merits. This casual phrase is common in business and signals you need more time or evidence.
- Meaning: You are not fully convinced of the value or viability of the proposal.
- Example: “The new marketing campaign will target teenagers.” — “I’m not entirely sold on that idea yet; our main demographic is older.”
3. I see your point, but I’m hesitant. This phrase validates the speaker’s argument (“I see your point”) while clearly stating your lack of immediate agreement (“but I’m hesitant”).
- Meaning: You understand the logic, but you are still unwilling to commit to the conclusion.
- Example: “I understand the short-term benefits, but I’m hesitant about the long-term cost.”
4. I need more data before I commit. This is a professional and evidence-based way to express doubt. It shifts the focus from your opinion to the need for factual proof.
- Meaning: You require further evidence or facts to make a decision.
- Example: “We should launch the product next month.” — “I need more data before I commit to that timeline.”
5. I’ll need some time to process that. This phrase indicates that the proposal is complex, significant, or potentially flawed, and you need to step away to think about it fully.
- Meaning: The idea is complex or significant, and you need time for deliberation.
- Example: “The restructure will affect all departments.” — “I’ll need some time to process that before I give my feedback.”
Direct and Focused Skepticism 🤨
These phrases clearly state your lack of belief or ask directly for the evidence needed to change your mind.
6. I remain skeptical. Skeptical means having doubts about something. This is a direct and professional way to state your position.
- Meaning: You still hold doubts despite the information presented.
- Example: “The sales figures will increase by 50% next quarter.” — “I remain skeptical without a clear action plan.”
7. That’s a strong claim. This phrase signals that the statement or proposal is bold, surprising, or potentially exaggerated, and requires solid proof.
- Meaning: You believe the statement is extreme and demands significant evidence.
- Example: “We can finish this entire project in three days.” — “That’s a strong claim. What makes you so confident?”
8. I’m not sure I follow your logic there. This focuses the doubt specifically on the reasoning or analytical steps taken, inviting the speaker to re-explain their chain of thought.
- Meaning: You question the sequence or validity of the argument presented.
- Example: “If we fire the manager, everyone will work harder.” — “I’m not sure I follow your logic there.“
9. What evidence is that based on? This is the most direct and assertive way to challenge a statement. It avoids commenting on the idea itself and asks purely for the source of truth.
- Meaning: You are directly challenging the factual basis of the statement.
- Example: “This system is completely stable now.” — “What evidence is that based on?“
10. I have my doubts. A short, clear, and concise statement that firmly expresses lack of belief or confidence in the success of the plan.
- Meaning: You are firmly expressing a lack of confidence in the statement or plan.
- Example: “I think we can launch the app without testing it fully.” — “I have my doubts about skipping the testing phase.”
Quick Tips for Expressing Doubt
- Stay Neutral: When using these 10 phrases to say “I’m not convinced,” keep your tone neutral and analytical, not confrontational.
- Ask for Data: Always follow a phrase like “I remain skeptical” with a request for evidence: “I remain skeptical. What were the results of the initial testing?”
- Use the “I”: Focus the doubt on your personal position (“I need more data,” “I have reservations”) rather than accusing the speaker (“Your data is wrong”).
Which phrase is the most evidence-based way to express doubt?
