WordGarden.iouncertainty
B1Pronunciation
UK
- /ʌnsˈɜːtənti/
US
- /ənˈsɜrtənti/
Meanings
Noun
a state of not being sure about something
the degree to which a measurement, estimate, or result is not exact
Beyond the definition
Uncertainty is not just about not knowing something; it is a state where the result, answer, or future is not clear yet. Imagine a tightrope walker: with every step, they do not know for sure if their balance will hold. Or think of planting a seed: you hope it grows, but you cannot know what will happen until the first sprout appears. It can feel unsettling, even frightening, but it can also hold possibility. We often talk about "economic uncertainty" when markets change quickly or "political uncertainty" during elections, when the future feels unclear.
Uncertainty is a state of being unsure about something—whether it's an event, a situation, or a fact. It's more than just lacking information; it implies a degree of doubt and unpredictability. Think of a detective investigating a crime – they operate within a realm of uncertainty until they gather enough evidence to form a conclusion.
The word can be used in many contexts. In science, uncertainty is often acknowledged when making predictions or measurements—no experiment is perfect, so there's always a margin of error. In finance, "market uncertainty" refers to the volatility and risk associated with investments. In everyday life, we experience uncertainty constantly: will it rain tomorrow? Will you get the job?
Philosophers have long debated the nature of uncertainty, recognizing that it's an inherent part of the human condition. Some embrace it as a source of creativity and opportunity, while others seek to minimize it through planning and control. A character in a novel might be described as "living with uncertainty," suggesting they've accepted the unpredictable nature of life.
Ultimately, uncertainty isn't necessarily negative. It can be a catalyst for growth, innovation, and resilience. While we often strive for certainty, learning to navigate uncertainty is a crucial skill for thriving in a complex world.
Examples
- 1
Scheduling
There is still some uncertainty about the date of the meeting.
- 2
Workplace
The long delay has created uncertainty among staff.
- 3
Future costs
Small businesses are struggling with uncertainty over future costs.
- Patternuncertainty over/about + issue
not being sure about it
- 4
Difficult times
During times of uncertainty, people often want clear and simple answers.
More examplesFewer examples
- 5
Facial expression
She paused at the door, her face showing uncertainty.
- 6
Data limits
The report admits a high degree of uncertainty in the data.
- Phrasea high degree of uncertainty
a lot of uncertainty
- 7
Business risk
One of the biggest uncertainties is whether the company can raise more money.
- Grammaruncertainties
specific things that are still unknown
See also
Similar
- doubt
- lack of certainty
- indeterminacy
Shades of meaning
Contrast
Used with (collocations)
- economic uncertainty
- uncertainty about the future
- a period of uncertainty
- reduce uncertainty
Word family
Explore
Forms and spellings
2 forms open this card.
Main spelling
- uncertaintynoun
Forms
- uncertaintiespluralnoun