uncertain
- 01 B1 Intermediate
feeling that you do not know something for sure or cannot rely on it.
describing a subjective state of doubt or lack of confidence regarding a fact or outcome.
Simple“She was uncertain about which road to take at the fork.”
In context“Investors remained uncertain about the market's recovery, leading to a significant decrease in high-risk trading throughout the quarter.”
- 02 B1 Intermediate
not known or fixed; something that might change or is not clear yet.
describing an objective situation that is not established, confirmed, or clearly defined.
Simple“The exact date of the party is still uncertain because of the weather.”
In context“The origins of the manuscript remain uncertain, as carbon dating has provided conflicting results regarding the age of the parchment.”
- 03 B2 Upper Intermediate
likely to change often or behave in a way you cannot predict.
subject to change or variation; lacking a predictable pattern or stability.
Simple“The weather in the mountains is very uncertain, so bring a jacket.”
In context“The political climate remains uncertain, with shifting alliances making it difficult for analysts to forecast the outcome of the upcoming election.”
SynonymsAntonyms
Usage uncertain future
From Middle English uncerteyn. By surface analysis, un- + certain.
Etymology adapted from Wiktionary, available under CC BY-SA 4.0.