35 Other Ways to Say “I Don’t Know” (With Examples)

Whether you’re talking with colleagues, friends, or strangers, choosing the right way to express uncertainty can help maintain a positive connection and avoid sounding dismissive or distant. Let’s dive into 35 alternative ways to say “I don’t know” that convey warmth, care, and consideration in your conversations.

What Does “I Don’t Know” Mean?

The phrase “I don’t know ” is often used to admit a lack of knowledge or certainty about something. While it’s a direct and honest response, it can sometimes feel abrupt or impersonal, especially in sensitive or professional settings. Exploring other ways to express this can soften the message, offer a sense of openness, and show a willingness to learn or find out more. This shift can improve the tone of the conversation and build a stronger rapport with the person you’re speaking to.

When to Use “I Don’t Know“

“I don’t know” can be appropriate in situations where you truly have no answer or are uncertain about a subject. However, there are also moments when it’s better to offer a more thoughtful or collaborative response. For example, when you need more time to gather information, or when you’d prefer to acknowledge the uncertainty while demonstrating a willingness to find a solution. These alternatives give you a way to maintain professionalism, respect, and engagement in conversations where you may lack immediate answers.

Is It Professional/Polite to Say “I Don’t Know”?

While “I don’t know” is generally polite and honest, it can sometimes come across as abrupt, especially in professional environments. It might sound dismissive or like a closed-off response, depending on the context. Using alternatives helps soften this admission and conveys a more collaborative attitude. Saying something like “I’ll look into it” or “Let’s find out together” can suggest that you are engaged and proactive rather than merely giving up.

Pros and Cons

Pros

• Honesty: It’s direct and transparent, which builds trust in communication.
• Clarity: It avoids any confusion by admitting the lack of knowledge upfront.

Cons

• Abruptness: It can feel dismissive if not framed properly.
• Lack of warmth: Can come off as unhelpful or disengaged if overused in sensitive situations.
• Missed opportunity: Doesn’t offer a follow-up or a proactive next step.

 I Don’t Know synonyms:

• I’m still figuring that out.
• I’m not entirely sure, but I’ll keep you posted.
• I don’t have the answer right now, but I’ll check and get back to you.
• I’m not the best person to answer that, but I can point you in the right direction.
• Let me check and get back to you.
• I don’t have that info at the moment, but I’ll find out.
• I haven’t had a chance to look into that yet.
• I can’t say for sure, but I’ll check.
• I’m not entirely sure, but I’ll try to find out.
• That’s a great questionI’ll need to look into that.
• I’m not sure off the top of my head.
• Let me get back to you on that.
• I’m not sure, but I can find someone who knows.
• I’ll need to double-check that.
• That’s something I’ll have to research.
• I’m not 100% sure, but I’ll check for you.
• I don’t know offhand, but I can find out.
• I don’t have the details right now.
• I’m unsure about that, but I’ll ask around.
• I’m not familiar with that, but I’ll find out.
• I don’t have an answer right now, but I’ll follow up with you.
• I don’t know for sure, but I can give you an estimate.
• I don’t have that information right now, but I can check for you.
• I’m not entirely sure, but I can look into it.
• I’m not the best person to answer that.
• I’m not sure, but I can find the right resources.
• I don’t have the answer right now, but I’ll make sure we get it.
• I’m not sure, but I can help you figure it out.
• I’m not certain, but I’ll see if I can get the answer for you.
• I’m not sure where to start with that, but I can look into it.
• I’m not sure, but I can ask around.
• I don’t have the details right now, but I’ll make sure you get them.
• I’m not sure off the top of my head, but I can look into it.
• I’m not certain, but I can point you in the right direction.

I’m not sure, but I’ll find out!

Meaning:
This response acknowledges uncertainty while conveying a willingness to seek an answer.

Explanation
It reassures the other person that you’re not dismissing their question, but instead, you plan to get back to them with a more informed answer.

Example:
Your colleague asks a detailed question about a project, and you say, I’m not sure, but I’ll find out!

Best Use:
When you need to show that you’re taking action to find the answer.

Worst Use:
When you’re unable to follow through on finding an answer.

Tone:
Proactive and helpful.

I’m still figuring that out.

Meaning:
This phrase shows that you’re actively working on understanding the situation.

Explanation:
It communicates that the answer is not yet clear, but you’re engaged in the process of discovering it.

Example:
Someone asks about a complex issue, and you reply, I’m still figuring that out.

Best Use:
When you’re in the process of gathering more information or analyzing something.

Worst Use:
When the matter needs to be addressed urgently.

Tone:
Honest and reflective.

I’m not entirely sure, but I’ll keep you posted.

Meaning:
Acknowledges uncertainty while committing to provide updates as you find out more.

Explanation:
This shows that you’re open to learning and will keep the other person informed as soon as you have clarity.

Example:
A friend asks when a group event will be held, and you say, I’m not entirely sure, but I’ll keep you posted.

Best Use:
When the situation is still developing you can provide further details later.

Worst Use:
When the person needs a clear answer immediately.

Tone:
Reassuring and communicative.

I don’t have the answer right now, but I’ll check and get back to you.

Meaning:
Acknowledge that you don’t have the answer, but you’re committed to finding it.

Explanation:
This phrase adds an extra layer of responsibility, showing that you’re taking ownership of the request.

Example:
A client asks for specific data, and you reply, I don’t have the answer right now, but I’ll check and get back to you.

Best Use:
When you want to assure someone that you’ll follow through.

Worst Use:
When the request isn’t critical enough to require follow-up.

Tone:
Responsible and professional.

I’m not the best person to answer that, but I can point you in the right direction.

Meaning:
Acknowledges your limitations while offering assistance in finding the answer.

Explanation:
This response shows humility and encourages collaboration.

Example:
A colleague asks you a technical question, and you reply, I’m not the best person to answer that, but I can point you in the right direction.

Best Use:
When you can connect someone to a more qualified source or individual.

Worst Use:
When you have no other options for providing help.

Tone:
Humble and helpful.

Let me check and get back to you.

Meaning:
A simple and polite way to acknowledge that you need time to find the answer.

Explanation:
This is a quick way to express uncertainty while committing to follow up later.

Example:
Your boss asks you a question, and you respond, Let me check and get back to you.

Best Use:
When you need to verify details before providing an answer.

Worst Use:
When you’re not committed to following up.

Tone:
Efficient and dependable.

I don’t have that info at the moment, but I’ll find out.

Meaning:
Acknowledges that you don’t have the required information immediately but will make an effort to find it.

Explanation:
This shows accountability and a proactive attitude.

Example:
A colleague asks about an upcoming meeting’s details, and you say, I don’t have that info at the moment, but I’ll find out.

Best Use:
When you need to research or consult someone else for the information.

Worst Use:
When it’s a straightforward question that you should know.

Tone:
Responsible and committed.

I haven’t had a chance to look into that yet.

Meaning:
This suggests that while you don’t have an answer, you’re still planning to gather more information.

Explanation:
It conveys that the issue is on your radar and that you will address it when possible.

Example:
A client asks about the status of a project, and you respond, I haven’t had a chance to look into that yet.

Best Use:
When you’re in the middle of other tasks and haven’t yet tackled the question.

Worst Use:
When the inquiry requires urgent attention.

Tone:
Honest and transparent.

I can’t say for sure, but I’ll check.

Meaning:
A soft way of admitting you don’t know while reassuring the person that you will verify the details.

Explanation:
This expresses uncertainty but adds an element of action to the response.

Example:
A colleague asks you about a specific process, and you reply, I can’t say for sure, but I’ll check.

Best Use:
When you want to express caution but still promise to follow up.

Worst Use:
When you are expected to have the answer right away.

Tone:
Polite and solution-oriented.

I’m not entirely sure, but I’ll try to find out.

Meaning:
Shows a lack of certainty but indicates a willingness to make an effort.

Explanation:
This response conveys that you’re not giving up and will try to seek the answer, even if it’s not immediately available.

Example:
Someone asks a specific technical question, and you say, I’m not entirely sure, but I’ll try to find out.

Best Use:
When you’re committed to learning more and helping the other person.

Worst Use:
When the answer is needed quickly and you don’t have time to follow up.

Tone:
Encouraging and diligent.

That’s a great questionI’ll need to look into that.

Meaning:
Expresses appreciation for the question while acknowledging the need for further investigation.

Explanation:
This response shows that you value the inquiry and are willing to make an effort to find the answer.

Example:
A team member asks about a challenging topic, and you reply, That’s a great questionI’ll need to look into that.

Best Use:
When you want to show enthusiasm for the question but don’t have an immediate answer.

Worst Use:
When the question is basic you should know the answer.

Tone:
Positive and appreciative.

I’m not sure off the top of my head.

Meaning:
A casual way to admit you don’t know something immediately.

Explanation:
This phrase communicates that you don’t have the information readily available, but it doesn’t imply ignorance.

Example:
A friend asks you for a recommendation, and you say, I’m not sure off the top of my head.

Best Use:
When you’re being asked about something you don’t have immediate recall of.

Worst Use:
When it’s a question you should know the answer to it, especially in professional contexts.

Tone:
Casual and approachable.

Let me get back to you on that.

Meaning:
Offers to follow up after doing some research or getting clarification.

Explanation:
This shows that while you don’t have the answer now, you’re committed to finding it.

Example:
A customer asks for a product feature, and you respond, Let me get back to you on that.

Best Use:
When you need time to gather more details or consult someone else.

Worst Use:
When the answer is simple you could answer immediately.

Tone:
Professional and reliable.

I’m not sure, but I can find someone who knows.

Meaning:
Acknowledges your uncertainty and offers an alternative solution by connecting the person with someone more knowledgeable.

Explanation:
This shows a willingness to help, even if you don’t have the answer yourself.

Example:
A client asks about a niche service, and you say, I’m not sure, but I can find someone who knows.

Best Use:
When you know someone else can provide the answer quickly.

Worst Use:
When you don’t have access to someone who can provide the answer.

Tone:
Helpful and resourceful.

I’ll need to double-check that.

Meaning:
Indicates that you need to verify the information before providing an answer.

Explanation:
This shows diligence in making sure the information you give is accurate.

Example:
A coworker asks about a deadline, and you respond, I’ll need to double-check that.

Best Use:
When there’s a possibility that the details may have changed or you need to verify something.

Worst Use:
When you have the information but aren’t giving it.

Tone:
Responsible and thorough.

That’s something I’ll have to research.

Meaning:
A more formal way of saying you don’t have the answer, but you’ll take the time to look it up.

Explanation:
This response conveys a sense of seriousness and commitment to finding the right answer.

Example:
Someone asks a technical question, and you reply, That’s something I’ll have to research.

Best Use:
When the information requires careful investigation.

Worst Use:
When the question is simple and should be within your knowledge.

Tone:
Serious and diligent.

I’m not 100% sure, but I’ll check for you.

Meaning:
Expresses some level of uncertainty but promises to verify the information.

Explanation:
This conveys that you’re not entirely certain, but you’re willing to make the effort to ensure accuracy.

Example:
A colleague asks if a meeting time has changed, and you reply, I’m not 100% sure, but I’ll check for you.

Best Use:
When you’re not completely certain but want to offer assurance.

Worst Use:
When the information is readily available to you.

Tone:
Reassuring and considerate.

I don’t know offhand, but I can find out.

Meaning:
Acknowledges you don’t have the information immediately available, but you’re willing to find it.

Explanation:
This response is casual and friendly while still showing a willingness to help.

Example:
A friend asks for a specific movie recommendation, and you say, I don’t know offhand, but I can find out.

Best Use:
When you don’t know the answer, but you’re happy to take the time to find it.

Worst Use:
When you should have the answer based on your experience.

Tone:
Friendly and helpful.

I don’t have the details right now.

Meaning:
Indicates a lack of immediate information but suggests that you’ll provide it later.

Explanation:
This response is clear, conveying that the answer is available but not right at the moment.

Example:
A client asks about a product feature, and you reply, I don’t have the details right now.

Best Use:
When you can give the details later once you’ve gathered them.

Worst Use:
When the information should be easily accessible.

Tone:
Direct and honest.

I’m unsure about that, but I’ll ask around.

Meaning:
Acknowledges your uncertainty while showing initiative to find the information.

Explanation:
This indicates that you’re not just leaving the question unanswered; you’re taking proactive steps to find out.

Example:
A colleague asks about a process, and you reply, I’m unsure about that, but I’ll ask around.

Best Use:
When you need to consult others or seek clarification.

Worst Use:
When the question is something you should already know or can find on your own.

Tone:
Collaborative and resourceful.

I’m not familiar with that, but I’ll find out.

Meaning:
Acknowledges that you’re not acquainted with the subject but assures you will take steps to learn more.

Explanation:
This is a polite way to express unfamiliarity while showing willingness to do further research.

Example:
A colleague asks about a new tool in your field, and you reply, I’m not familiar with that, but I’ll find out.

Best Use:
When you are asked about something outside your usual scope of knowledge but want to help by learning more.

Worst Use:
When you should have prior knowledge about the subject.

Tone:
Open and responsible.

I don’t have an answer right now, but I’ll follow up with you.

Meaning:
Communicate that you don’t know the answer at the moment but are committed to providing it later.

Explanation:
This is a clear, reassuring response that emphasizes follow-up and responsibility.

Example:

A client asks about a report you haven’t completed, and you say, I don’t have an answer right now, but I’ll follow up with you.

Best Use:
When you need to promise follow-up or when the information will be available soon.

Worst Use:
When follow-up isn’t possible or when the answer should be readily available.

Tone:
Professional and reliable.

I don’t know for sure, but I can give you an estimate.

Meaning:
Suggests that while you can’t provide an exact answer, you’re able to offer an educated guess.

Explanation:
This response acknowledges uncertainty while still providing some value, offering an estimated answer.

Example:
A client asks how long a project will take, and you respond, I don’t know for sure, but I can give you an estimate.

Best Use:
When you can provide a rough idea of the answer but lack precise information.

Worst Use:
When an exact answer is critical, and a guess isn’t enough.

Tone:
Approachable and transparent.

I don’t have that information right now, but I can check for you.

Meaning:
Expresses that you lack the needed details but are willing to take the time to find them.

Explanation:
This is a helpful way to admit you don’t know while offering a solution.

Example:
A customer asks for specific product availability, and you say, I don’t have that information right now, but I can check for you.

Best Use:
When you’re not immediately sure but are willing to check and get back to the person.

Worst Use:
When the information is easily accessible you can provide it without checking.

Tone:
Polite and helpful.

I’m not entirely sure, but I can look into it.

Meaning:
Acknowledges a level of uncertainty while promising to investigate further.

Explanation:
This conveys your uncertainty but assures the other person that you will make the effort to find the answer.

Example:
A team member asks about a policy change, and you respond, I’m not entirely sure, but I can look into it.

Best Use:
When you’re uncertain but committed to finding a solution.

Worst Use:
When you should know the answer or when further investigation isn’t necessary.

Tone:
Thoughtful and proactive.

I’m not the best person to answer that.

Meaning:
A humble way to admit you don’t have the answer but point to someone else who might.

Explanation:
This response shows that you recognize your limitations but are still willing to guide the person to someone who can help.

Example:
A colleague asks about legal matters, and you say, I’m not the best person to answer that, but I can refer you to someone who knows.

Best Use:
When the question requires expertise outside your knowledge and you’re directing the person to the right source.

Worst Use:
When you have enough knowledge to answer avoid doing so.

Tone:
Humble and helpful.

I’m not sure, but I can find the right resources.

Meaning:
Acknowledges you don’t know the answer, but you can direct the person to helpful resources.

Explanation:
This shows that you’re willing to assist by guiding others to resources that will answer their question.

Example:
A student asks about a complex research topic, and you say, I’m not sure, but I can find the right resources.

Best Use:
When you’re able to point to external resources for the answer.

Worst Use:
When you could answer the question directly but defer it unnecessarily.

Tone:
Resourceful and supportive.

I don’t have the answer right now, but I’ll make sure we get it.

Meaning:
Offers assurance that you will take action to find the answer.

Explanation:
This response reassures the other person that while you may not have an immediate answer, you’ll ensure that it’s found.

Example:
A client asks about a service update, and you say, I don’t have the answer right now, but I’ll make sure we get it.

Best Use:
When you’re confident that the answer will be found eventually and you want to assure the other person.

Worst Use:
When you’re unsure about whether you’ll be able to get the answer at all.

Tone:
Reassuring and determined.

I’m not sure, but I can help you figure it out.

Meaning:
Acknowledge uncertainty while offering assistance in finding the solution together.

Explanation:
This response communicates that although you don’t have the answer, you are willing to collaborate to find it.

Example:
A team member asks for a solution to a technical problem, and you say, I’m not sure, but I can help you figure it out.

Best Use:
When you want to offer support in working through the issue collaboratively.

Worst Use:
When you’re not in a position to help.

Tone:
Collaborative and supportive.

I’m not certain, but I’ll see if I can get the answer for you.

Meaning:
Expresses uncertainty but assures follow-up to obtain the information.

Explanation:
This communicates a lack of immediate certainty while offering to follow through and find the necessary answer.

Example:
A colleague asks about the status of a project, and you say, I’m not certain, but I’ll see if I can get the answer for you.

Best Use:
When you need time or someone else’s input to give a proper answer.

Worst Use:
When you should have an answer already.

Tone:
Reliable and thoughtful.

I’m not sure where to start with that, but I can look into it.

Meaning:
Acknowledges the complexity of the question and your need for more time or research.

Explanation:
This conveys that while you’re unsure how to approach the question initially, you’re willing to dedicate time to solving it.

Example:
A client asks a multi-faceted question, and you say, I’m not sure where to start with that, but I can look into it.

Best Use:
When the question is complex and requires additional effort.

Worst Use:
When the question is simple and you can answer with minimal effort.

Tone:
Honest and thoughtful.

I’m not sure, but I can ask around.

Meaning:
Acknowledges that you don’t know but suggests that you’ll seek advice or input from others to find the answer.

Explanation:
This phrase shows that you’re taking responsibility for gathering the information by reaching out to others, emphasizing your collaborative approach.

Example:
A coworker asks you about a specific company policy, and you say, I’m not sure, but I can ask around.

Best Use:
When the answer requires input from multiple sources, and you’re willing to help by gathering information.

Worst Use:
When you’re expected to know the answer yourself without needing to ask others.

Tone:
Helpful and team-oriented.

I don’t have the details right now, but I’ll make sure you get them.

Meaning:
A polite way to express that you lack the specific details but are committed to providing them later.

Explanation:
This response reassures the other person that even though you can’t provide immediate answers, you’ll follow through on delivering the information.

Example:
A client asks for the full specs of a product, and you reply, I don’t have the details right now, but I’ll make sure you get them.

Best Use:
When you know you’ll have access to the required information shortly but want to assure the person that you’ll provide it.

Worst Use:
When there’s no clear timeline for when you can provide the information.

Tone:
Considerate and professional.

I’m not sure off the top of my head, but I can look into it.

Meaning:
Indicates that you don’t know the answer immediately but are willing to do some quick research to find it.

Explanation:
This phrase highlights that while you don’t have an immediate answer, you’re ready to put in the effort to find the right information.

Example:
A colleague asks you about an outdated software version, and you say, I’m not sure off the top of my head, but I can look into it.

Best Use:
When you don’t have the answer right away but can quickly search for it or ask someone knowledgeable.

Worst Use:
When the question is simple and requires minimal research.

Tone:
Honest and proactive.

I’m not certain, but I can point you in the right direction.

Meaning:
You may not know the specific answer, but you’re able to guide the person to someone or something that can help.

Explanation:
This phrase acknowledges that you don’t have the answer but still provides value by offering guidance or a potential solution.

Example:
A team member asks about a complicated task, and you respond, I’m not certain, but I can point you in the right direction.

Best Use:
When you know who or what can provide the answer, but you’re not the one who can give it.

Worst Use:
When you’re expected to know the answer guiding someone elsewhere feels like avoiding responsibility.

Tone:
Helpful and supportive.

Conclusion:

Navigating the uncertainty of I don’t know an answer can feel awkward, but with these 35 alternative phrases, you have a toolkit to express yourself thoughtfully, with care, and with a sense of responsibility.