uncertainty
- 01 B2 Upper Intermediate
the feeling of not being sure about something or not knowing what will happen.
the psychological state of doubt or lack of conviction regarding a fact or outcome. Uncountable in this abstract sense.
Simple“There is a lot of uncertainty about whether the company will close next year.”
In context“The prevailing sense of uncertainty among investors led to a sharp decline in market activity as they waited for the central bank's announcement.”
SynonymsAntonyms - 02 B2 Upper Intermediate
a specific thing or situation that is not known or decided yet.
a specific circumstance or variable that is unknown or unpredictable. Countable in this sense.
Simple“Life is full of uncertainties, so it is important to have a backup plan.”
In context“The project manager attempted to account for every possible uncertainty, from supply chain delays to sudden shifts in local regulations.”
Synonyms - 03 C1 Advanced
the range of possible error in a scientific measurement.
a parameter that quantifies the dispersion of values that could reasonably be attributed to a measured quantity.
Simple“The scientist calculated the uncertainty in the temperature readings to ensure the data was accurate.”
In context“Standard laboratory protocols require researchers to report the degree of uncertainty associated with their experimental results to maintain scientific rigour.”
UsageOften used with the preposition 'in' followed by the measured variable.
Usage reduce uncertainty · reflect uncertainty · uncertainty reflect
“The organisation said Rideout's release was "incredibly good news" after months of uncertainty about his wellbeing.”
“There are strong rumours he may leave Chelsea in the summer transfer window which provides uncertainty and he may be late to return anyway before gameweek one.”
From Middle English uncerteynte; equivalent to un- + certainty or uncertain + -ty.
Etymology adapted from Wiktionary, available under CC BY-SA 4.0.