Curiosity about this word "pretty."

[UE-SPMIW]

There's something weird when they say, "I'm not pretty sure." I have seen or heard about this sentence when people are unsure about a situation.

Is there something wrong with this sentence? We should not use "pretty" to mention that we’re unsure. Should we?

What do you think?

 

[5jj]

When did you hear someone say this?

We do not normally say "I'm not pretty sure." except perhaps as a contrast - "I'm not pretty sure - I am am very sure indeed".

 

[UE-SPMIW]

When did you hear someone say this?

We do not normally say "I'm not pretty sure." except perhaps as a contrast - "I'm not pretty sure - I am am very sure indeed".

It was just a while ago. Either when I open my social media account or communicate with my friends on their posts, I always see or hear this sentence when people are unsure about their lives or even a situation.

 

[emsr2d2]

No offence, but I'm going to dispute that you "always" see it. It's unnatural except in the context that 5jj gave. We tend to use "pretty" only in positive statements and questions, but not in negatives.

I'm pretty sure.
Are you pretty sure?
I'm not pretty sure.

 

[jutfrank]

It could also be the case that your social media friends are non-native speakers using incorrect English.

 

[UE-SPMIW]

No offence, but I'm going to dispute that you "always" see it. It's unnatural except in the context that 5jj gave. We tend to use "pretty" only in positive statements and questions, but not in negatives.

I'm pretty sure.
Are you pretty sure?
I'm not pretty sure.

I have already mentioned it: there's something weird with this sentence. It's a good thing you are here.