Synonym Chooser

How does the noun uncertainty differ from other similar words?

Some common synonyms of uncertainty are doubt, dubiety, mistrust, skepticism, and suspicion. While all these words 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

When could doubt be used to replace uncertainty?

The words doubt and uncertainty are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, doubt suggests both uncertainty and inability to make a decision.

plagued by doubts as to what to do

Where would dubiety be a reasonable alternative to uncertainty?

Although the words dubiety and uncertainty have much in common, dubiety stresses a wavering between conclusions.

felt some dubiety about its practicality

When might mistrust be a better fit than uncertainty?

While in some cases nearly identical to uncertainty, mistrust implies a genuine doubt based upon suspicion.

had a great mistrust of doctors

When would skepticism be a good substitute for uncertainty?

While the synonyms skepticism and uncertainty are close in meaning, skepticism implies unwillingness to believe without conclusive evidence.

an economic forecast greeted with skepticism

In what contexts can suspicion take the place of uncertainty?

The synonyms suspicion and uncertainty are sometimes interchangeable, but suspicion stresses lack of faith in the truth, reality, fairness, or reliability of something or someone.

regarded the stranger with suspicion

Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of uncertainty Business leaders' confidence in the U.S. economy has halved since the beginning of the year, according to JPMorgan Chase & Co., as companies grapple with the impact of President Donald Trump's tariffs and broader geopolitical uncertainties. Hugh Cameron, MSNBC Newsweek, 25 June 2025 While uncertainty around the US economy has increased, the European economy — though facing its own headwinds from tariffs — has emerged as relatively more stable. John Towfighi, CNN Money, 25 June 2025 The ceasefire has held since, but investors will keep an eye on the situation to keep track of any uncertainty. Brian Evans,sawdah Bhaimiya, CNBC, 25 June 2025 Lawmakers have been reluctant to make sweeping cuts, choosing a wait-and-see approach in light of the state’s financial uncertainty. Samantha Masunaga, Los Angeles Times, 25 June 2025 See All Example Sentences for uncertainty
Recent Examples of Synonyms for uncertainty
Noun
  • There is no doubt that the strike will be recorded as one of the most successful strategic bombing operations in history.
    David Hambling, Forbes.com, 23 June 2025
  • There's no doubt whoever comes out of this liberal rat race will be sent packing when Iowans re-elect America First fighter Mariannette Miller-Meeks next fall.
    Andrew Stanton, MSNBC Newsweek, 23 June 2025
Noun
  • Trump’s reelection dashed the view that his first presidency was a mere aberration, and his second administration’s early, seismic actions on global trade, skepticism toward allies, and affection for erstwhile adversaries have already changed the United States’ role and image in the world.
    REBECCA LISSNER, Foreign Affairs, 24 June 2025
  • Tesla’s history of hype and overpromising with FSD is legendary, increasing the validity of skepticism.
    Brad Templeton, Forbes.com, 24 June 2025
Noun
  • Their suspicions heightened when Shaw claimed to them that one month before Ben died, Lynlee allegedly plotted to kill Ben by giving him a poisonous protein shake laced with 15 Percocet pills.
    Caroline Blair, People.com, 28 June 2025
  • Since the sender address and branding are authentic, recipients are more likely to trust the communication without suspicion.
    Kurt Knutsson, FOXNews.com, 28 June 2025

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Cite this Entry

“Uncertainty.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/uncertainty. Accessed 3 Jul. 2025.

More from Merriam-Webster on uncertainty

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