uncertain

[uhn-sur-tn]

adjective

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

   Synonyms: unpredictable, unsure

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. 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. 1. unambiguously

   2. forcefully

Other Word Forms

• uncertainly adverb
• uncertainness 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

For now, Palestinians remain uncertain as they wait to see whether the words on paper can truly be enough to end the war.

From BBC

But when his administrative leave will be resolved remains uncertain.

From Los Angeles Times

A number of veterans inside CBS News who were not authorized to speak publicly said they have a wait-and-see attitude over the pending Weiss appointment, as they are uncertain on what her role will entail.

From Los Angeles Times

Federalism allocates a great deal of authority to state legislatures to make decisions when a question of rights is uncertain.

From Salon

The most uncertain spot in the secondary has been in the slot, where Riley has yet to find a capable replacement for Brown.

From Los Angeles Times

Related Words

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