uncertainly
/ʌn'sə:tnli/
Definition
- Adverb:
- In a manner that shows doubt or lack of certainty: Expressing hesitation, indecision, or a lack of confidence in what one is saying, thinking, or doing.
- In an unsteady, wavering, or insecure manner: Moving or behaving in a way that is not firm, stable, or confident.
Usage and Examples
Showing lack of certainty:
- She answered the question uncertainly, unsure if her memory was correct.
- "I think the meeting is tomorrow," he said uncertainly.
In an unsteady manner:
- The toddler stood up uncertainly before taking a few wobbly steps.
- After the long flight, he walked uncertainly through the unfamiliar airport.
Advanced Usage and Nuances
"to speak/answer uncertainly": To communicate with hesitation, often indicated by a faltering voice or pauses.
- Faced with the difficult question, the student began to speak uncertainly.
"to move/stand uncertainly": To exhibit physical instability or a lack of balance.
- The hiker, exhausted and dizzy, moved uncertainly along the narrow path.
Variants and Related Words
- Uncertain (adjective): Not known, definite, or decided; not confident or sure.
- The outcome of the election is still uncertain.
- Uncertainty (noun): The state of being uncertain; something that is uncertain or causes doubt.
- There is a great deal of uncertainty about the future of the project.
Synonyms
- Hesitantly: With hesitation or reluctance.
- Tentatively: In a hesitant, cautious, or experimental manner.
- Unsteadily: In a way that is not firm, stable, or regular in movement.
- Dubiously: With doubt or suspicion.
Antonyms
- Certainly: Without doubt; definitely.
- Confidently: In a self-assured way.
- Steadily: In a regular, stable, and unwavering manner.
Related Phrases and Idioms
- To tread uncertainly: To proceed with caution and doubt, either literally or figuratively.
- The company is treading uncertainly into the new market.
- An uncertainly held belief: A belief or opinion that is not firmly held and is open to doubt.
- It was more of an uncertainly held belief than a strong conviction.
Adverb
-
showing lack of certainty
-
he paused uncertainly
-
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in an unsteady manner
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he walked unsteadily toward the exit
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The wounded soldier was swinging unsteadily on his legs
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