uncertain

[ uhn-sur-tn ]

adjective

1. not definitely ascertainable or fixed, as in time of occurrence, number, dimensions, or quality.

   Synonyms: unsure, unpredictable

2. not confident, assured, or free from hesitancy:

   an uncertain smile.

3. not clearly or precisely determined; indefinite; unknown:

   a manuscript of uncertain origin.

   Synonyms: undetermined, unsettled

4. vague; indistinct; not perfectly apprehended:

   an abstruse novel with uncertain themes.

5. subject to change; variable; capricious; unstable:

   a person of uncertain opinions.

6. ambiguous; unreliable; undependable:

   Her loyalties are uncertain.

7. dependent on chance or unpredictable factors; doubtful; of unforeseeable outcome or effect.
8. unsteady or flickering, as light; of changing intensity or quality.

   Synonyms: irregular

uncertain

/ ʌnˈsɜːtən /

adjective

1. not able to be accurately known or predicted

   the issue is uncertain

2. whenpostpositive, often foll by of not sure or confident (about)

   a man of uncertain opinion

3. not precisely determined, established, or decided

   uncertain plans

4. not to be depended upon; unreliable

   an uncertain vote

5. liable to variation; changeable

   the weather is uncertain

6. in no uncertain terms
   1. unambiguously
   2. forcefully

Derived Forms

• unˈcertainly, adverb
• unˈcertainness, noun

Other Words From

• un·certain·ly adverb
• un·certain·ness noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of uncertain¹

First recorded in 1250–1300; Middle English; un- ¹ + certain

Idioms and Phrases

see in no uncertain terms .

Synonym Study

Uncertain, insecure, precarious imply a lack of predictability. That which is uncertain is doubtful or problematical; it often involves danger through an inability to predict or to place confidence in the unknown: The time of his arrival is uncertain. That which is insecure is not firm, stable, reliable, or safe, and hence is likely to give way, fail, or be overcome: an insecure foundation, footing, protection. Precarious suggests great susceptibility to failure, or exposure to imminent danger: a precarious means of existence.

Example Sentences

But is he good enough to settle the ground under Riley’s uncertain footsteps?

From Los Angeles Times

Dr. Georges Benjamin, executive director of the American Public Health Assn., said that even if Kennedy wins confirmation, it’s uncertain how long he would remain in Trump’s good graces.

From Los Angeles Times

Politics have been confusing and uncertain in France and Venezuela since the countries held elections this summer.

From NewsForKids.net

Politics have been confusing and uncertain in France and Venezuela since the countries held elections this summer.

From NewsForKids.net

Politics have been confusing and uncertain in France and Venezuela since the countries held elections this summer.

From NewsForKids.net

Related Words

• ambiguous
• ambivalent
• dubious
• erratic
• hazy
• hesitant
• insecure
• precarious
• questionable
• risky
• unclear
• undecided
• undetermined
• unpredictable
• unreliable
• unresolved
• unsettled
• unsure
• vague