unsure

adjective

un·​sure ˌən-ˈshu̇r 

-ˈshər,

 especially Southern  -ˈshȯr

: not marked by or given to feelings of confident certainty : not sure

was unsure of what to do

Phrases

unsure of oneself

: lacking confidence in one's abilities

… he's a little unsure of himself when it comes to the music world …

—Seth Mnookin

Synonyms

• skeptical
• suspicious
• uncertain
• doubtful

Examples of unsure in a Sentence

unsure of her ability to handle the pressure of competing in the Olympic Games

Recent Examples on the Web

Now, the bride is unsure how to navigate her family rift sparked by her child-free wedding policy. —Ashlyn Robinette, PEOPLE, 17 Oct. 2025

The Governors were unsure at times what plays or defenses to run. —Tris Wykes, Twin Cities, 16 Oct. 2025

Police were still unsure and decided that Bethea could have chosen to make a ring with a first initial rather than for a surname. —Literary Hub, 16 Oct. 2025

Spotted skunks are a species of concern because scientists are unsure why its population has been declining in recent years, says Mengak. —Arricca Elin Sansone, Southern Living, 15 Oct. 2025

Word History

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for unsure

• abjure
• adjure
• allure
• assure
• brochure
• cocksure
• coiffure
• contour
• couture
• demure
• detour
• endure