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 of uncertainty

• 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

Belgium’s Prime Minister Bart De Wever had said his country needed concrete guarantees before supporting the use of Russian assets to fund the loan to Kyiv, citing legal uncertainties and potential litigation risks, Reuters reported. —Lee Ying Shan, CNBC, 19 Dec. 2025

But for Gen Zers who are experiencing economic uncertainty and social isolation, such a program can sound attractive – no matter their race. —George Michael, The Conversation, 19 Dec. 2025

During the first year of the tour, Gorman was flying back and forth between concert stops to Los Angeles, juggling rehearsals and performances with medical appointments, biopsies and the uncertainty of a cancer diagnosis. —Bryan West, USA Today, 19 Dec. 2025

That uncertainty has not altered Perseverance's near-term science plans, Lee said. —Sharmila Kuthunur, Space.com, 19 Dec. 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