uncertainty

noun

un·​cer·​tain·​ty ˌən-ˈsər-tᵊn-tē 

1

: the quality or state of being uncertain : doubt

2

: something that is uncertain

Synonyms

• doubt
• skepticism
• suspicion

Choose the Right Synonym for uncertainty

uncertainty, doubt, dubiety, skepticism, suspicion, mistrust mean lack of sureness about someone or something.

uncertainty may range from a falling short of certainty to an almost complete lack of conviction or knowledge especially about an outcome or result.

assumed the role of manager without hesitation or uncertainty

doubt suggests both uncertainty and inability to make a decision.

plagued by doubts as to what to do

dubiety stresses a wavering between conclusions.

felt some dubiety about its practicality

skepticism implies unwillingness to believe without conclusive evidence.

an economic forecast greeted with skepticism

suspicion stresses lack of faith in the truth, reality, fairness, or reliability of something or someone.

regarded the stranger with suspicion

mistrust implies a genuine doubt based upon suspicion.

had a great mistrust of doctors

Examples of uncertainty in a Sentence

There is some uncertainty about the company's future.

He accepted the position without hesitation or uncertainty.

Recent Examples on the Web

There was uncertainty whether Trackhouse had the speed to contend, with Chastain not finishing better than 10th in the preceding 10 races before the playoffs. —Jeff Gluck, New York Times, 6 Sep. 2025

Amid the regulatory uncertainty, some pharmacies have said that access to the shots may vary state-by-state and may require a prescription. —Jon Haworth, ABC News, 5 Sep. 2025

Rising prices, high rates, and economic uncertainty are combining to keep many aspiring homeowners on the sidelines, while those looking for homes contend with intense competition and tight supply. —Nick Lichtenberg, Fortune, 5 Sep. 2025

So far this year, the uncertainty around the new trade policies and consumer spending has prompted some businesses to slow hirings. —Bailey Schulz, USA Today, 5 Sep. 2025

Word History

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Phrases Containing uncertainty

• Heisenberg uncertainty principle
• uncertainty principle

Rhymes for uncertainty

• certainty

Kids Definition

uncertainty

noun

un·​cer·​tain·​ty ˌən-ˈsərt-ᵊn-tē 

1

: lack of certainty

2

: something that is uncertain