uncertain

/ʌn'sə:tn/

Definition

Adjective:
- Not able to be relied on; not known or definite: Describes something that is not fixed, sure, or predictable. It implies a lack of confidence, clarity, or stability.
- Not completely confident or sure: Describes a person's state of mind when they are hesitant, doubtful, or lacking in assurance.

Usage

Use "uncertain" to describe situations, outcomes, feelings, or things that are not clear, definite, or guaranteed.
It often precedes nouns like , , , , or follows linking verbs like , , .
It can be used in both formal and informal contexts.

Examples

Describing an indefinite situation:
- The economic forecast for next year is uncertain.
- We are facing an uncertain future.
Describing a lack of confidence:
- She was uncertain about which path to choose.
- He gave an uncertain smile.
Describing something not reliable or changeable:
- The weather in spring is often uncertain.
- The data from the old experiment is uncertain.

Advanced Usage

"in no uncertain terms": very clearly and forcefully, leaving no room for doubt.
- She rejected the proposal in no uncertain terms.
"uncertain of oneself": lacking self-confidence.
- As a new manager, he felt uncertain of himself in meetings.

Variants and Related Words

Uncertainly (adverb): in a hesitant or unsure manner.
- He nodded uncertainly.
Uncertainty (noun): the state of being uncertain.
- There is a great deal of uncertainty in the market.

Synonyms

Antonyms

Related Phrases

A lady of uncertain age: (idiomatic, often humorous) a woman whose age is not known or is discreetly not mentioned.
- The portrait was of a lady of uncertain age.
On uncertain ground: in a situation that is not secure or well-understood.
- His new theory put him on uncertain ground with his colleagues.

Adjective

ambiguous (especially in the negative)
- she spoke in no uncertain terms
not consistent or dependable
- an uncertain recollection of events
- a gun with a rather uncertain trigger
subject to change
- a changeable climate
- the weather is uncertain
- unsettled weather with rain and hail and sunshine coming one right after the other
not certain to occur; not inevitable
- everything is uncertain about the army
- the issue is uncertain
not established or confirmed
- his doom is as yet unsealed
not established beyond doubt; still undecided or unknown
- an uncertain future
- a manuscript of uncertain origin
- plans are still uncertain
- changes of great if uncertain consequences
- without further evidence his story must remain uncertain
lacking or indicating lack of confidence or assurance
- uncertain of his convictions
- unsure of himself and his future
- moving with uncertain (or unsure) steps
- an uncertain smile
- touched the ornaments with uncertain fingers

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