WordGarden.iouncertain
A2Pronunciation
UK
- /ʌnsˈɜːtən/
US
- /ənˈsɜrtən/
Meanings
Adjective
not known, decided, or sure
not assured, reliable, or predictable
hesitant or lacking confidence in manner or action
Beyond the definition
To be uncertain means not being completely sure about something, like wondering if it will rain tomorrow or pausing before making a big decision. It's the space between knowing and not knowing. A detective might be uncertain about a suspect's alibi, while an explorer might feel uncertain about the path ahead. Being uncertain is not always a bad thing; it often just means the situation is not clear yet. Think of a tightrope walker: each step is careful because one small mistake could change everything.
If something is uncertain, it is not fully known, settled, or clear. The word can describe facts, events, plans, feelings, or results. For example, if we say "the future is uncertain," we mean that we cannot predict exactly what will happen. If someone feels "uncertain about accepting a job offer," they are not sure whether it is the right choice.
The word often suggests doubt, hesitation, or sometimes a little worry. A scientist may be uncertain about early results and do more tests to get a clearer answer. A traveler may feel uncertain when the road signs disappear. A child may sound uncertain when answering a difficult question in class.
The degree can vary a lot. You might be slightly uncertain about what to order for dinner, but deeply uncertain about a serious medical diagnosis. It can also describe things that may change or cannot be predicted easily, such as uncertain weather or an uncertain economy.
In stories, this word often helps create suspense. A character facing an uncertain fate pulls the reader forward because the outcome is still unknown. In everyday life, the word fits moments when people must act without having all the answers.
So whether it describes a doubtful prediction, a hesitant choice, or an unclear future, uncertain is a word for those moments when the answer is still out of reach.
Examples
- 1
Scheduling
I'm still uncertain about the meeting time.
- 2
Medical prognosis
The doctors are uncertain whether the treatment will work.
- 3
Answering
She was uncertain how to answer his question.
- 4
Tone of voice
His voice sounded uncertain on the phone.
More examplesFewer examples
- 5
Business outlook
Investors are uncertain about the future of the company.
- 6
Unstable times
In uncertain times, people often avoid big risks.
- Phrasein uncertain times
when the future feels unstable or hard to predict
- 7
Court case
The final outcome of the case remains uncertain.
- 8
Graduation plans
After graduation, he felt uncertain about what to do next.
See also
Similar
Shades of meaning
Contrast
Used with (collocations)
- uncertain about
- uncertain whether
- uncertain future
- it is uncertain whether
Word family
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Forms and spellings
1 form open this card.
Main spelling
- uncertainadjective