uncertainty
Americannoun
plural
uncertainties-
the state of being uncertain; doubt; hesitancy.
His uncertainty gave impetus to his inquiry.
- Synonyms:
- ambivalence, indecision, irresolution, hesitation
-
an instance of uncertainty, doubt, etc.
-
unpredictability; indeterminacy; indefiniteness.
noun
-
Also called: uncertainness. the state or condition of being uncertain
-
an uncertain matter, contingency, etc
Etymology
Origin of uncertainty
First recorded in 1350–1400; Middle English uncerteynte; equivalent to un- 1 + certainty
Example Sentences
Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.
Most of the European Union's 27 nations back the Mercosur trade deal, which supporters argue is crucial to boost exports, help the continent's ailing economy and foster diplomatic ties at a time of global uncertainty.
From Barron's
House prices are already posting small falls across Southern England, reflecting high supply and uncertainty over taxes in the autumn budget.
“The latest flare-up involving Iran has reintroduced a fresh layer of uncertainty,” he wrote in emailed commentary.
From MarketWatch
The EPU index measures the frequency of newspaper articles that contain references to the economy, government regulations and policy, and uncertainty.
From MarketWatch
Mortgage rates fell over the last year, but wider global and economic uncertainty still has the potential to derail any further improvements.
From BBC
Definitions and idiom definitions from Dictionary.com Unabridged, based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2023
Idioms from The American Heritage® Idioms Dictionary copyright © 2002, 2001, 1995 by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. Published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company.
