uncertainty

[ uhn-sur-tn-tee ]

noun

, plural un·cer·tain·ties

1. the state of being uncertain; doubt; hesitancy:

   His uncertainty gave impetus to his inquiry.

   Synonyms: ambivalence, indecision, irresolution, hesitation

2. an instance of uncertainty, doubt, etc.
3. unpredictability; indeterminacy; indefiniteness.

uncertainty

/ ʌnˈsɜːtəntɪ /

noun

1. Also calleduncertainness the state or condition of being uncertain
2. an uncertain matter, contingency, etc

Word History and Origins

Origin of uncertainty¹

First recorded in 1350–1400; Middle English uncerteynte; equivalent to un- ¹ + certainty

Example Sentences

A weather system will push in from the Atlantic on Monday and this is where there could be some uncertainty in the forecast.

From BBC

There had been some uncertainty around whether or not the match would be allowed to be played in the UK or if the Belarusian players would be granted visas.

From BBC

That is made harder because mortgage deals currently have a relatively short shelf-life, owing to the uncertainty.

From BBC

Navigating the volatile crypto market, regulatory uncertainties and complex technological infrastructure can be daunting.

From Salon

“The impact on the sector is hard to judge fully at this stage but, at the very least, it will cause a good deal of uncertainty,” he said.

From BBC

Related Words

• ambiguity
• ambivalence
• anxiety
• concern
• confusion
• distrust
• mistrust
• skepticism
• suspicion
• trouble
• uneasiness
• unpredictability
• worry