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.
Policy uncertainty taking on a bigger role in the eyes of investors doesn’t mean that macroeconomic fundamentals — such as economic growth, business cycle and corporate earnings — no longer matter.
From MarketWatch
Despite the uncertainty, families, businesses and community members remain committed to adapting and persevering in the new normal.
From BBC
“That uncertainty hasn’t served our markets well, nor has it served the public interest,” said Selig on Thursday.
From Barron's
“That uncertainty hasn’t served our markets well, nor has it served the public interest,” said Selig on Thursday.
From Barron's
"There is currently significant uncertainty around notice, pay, employment protections, and access to HR or pastoral support," it said.
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.
