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

The American star is traveling to England with hopes of playing for Chelsea, but negotiations on a transfer continue with an uncertain future.

From Los Angeles Times

"Whether such strategies will have a meaningful impact on lifespan, particularly maximum human lifespan, remains uncertain, though it is an area of considerable scientific interest."

From BBC

You know, it’s a hard life, it’s an uncertain life, but I wouldn’t have it any other way.”

From Los Angeles Times

Cygnet had long outgrown its technologically outdated, barnlike theater in Old Town San Diego, its lease was uncertain and its operations were scattered around the area, notes Sean Murray, the Cygnet’s co-founder and artistic director.

From Los Angeles Times

The question of whether Bishop Montgomery’s football team goes forward with its season after firing its head coach on Saturday and forfeiting last week to Mater Dei remains uncertain.

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