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

Bloomberg | Bloomberg | Getty Images LONDON — European stocks were volatile in early trading on Tuesday and were on course to round-off their worst monthly performance in six years, as uncertainty over the trajectory of the Iran war lingers. —Holly Ellyatt, CNBC, 31 Mar. 2026

The airline's decision reflects broader economic uncertainty as the war continues. —Zach Wichter, USA Today, 30 Mar. 2026

Both conversations were aimed primarily at ensuring that the path to regulatory approval would be swift after years of uncertainty around the Telegraph’s ownership, these people said. —Max Tani, semafor.com, 30 Mar. 2026

Iran’s attacks on its Gulf neighbors could add another element of uncertainty to any talks. —Jon Gambrell, Chicago Tribune, 30 Mar. 2026

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