uncertain — not known or definite; not reliable or certain
Part of speech: ADJECTIVE
Definition: not known or definite; not reliable or certain
Pronunciation (IPA): /ʌnˈsɜːrtən/
Example Sentences
- I'm uncertain whether my cat loves me or just loves my food.
- The students looked uncertain about the pop quiz announcement.
- His uncertain smile made everyone wonder if he had forgotten his wallet again.
uncertain
ADJECTIVE[/ʌnˈsɜːrtən/]
not known or definite; not reliable or certain
The future felt uncertain after the sudden economic collapse.
Scientists remained uncertain because the experiment produced inconsistent results. (UNCLEAR + CERTAIN = UNCERTAIN → lacking confidence or definite knowledge)
The uncertain team became hesitant and increasingly dependent on outside guidance.
Got the picture? Now let's practice.
🎤Pronunciation
🌳Etymology
Origin
Emerged in Middle English during the 14th century as a combination of the negative prefix 'un-' and 'certain'. The word 'certain' derives from Latin 'certus', meaning 'settled, resolved, or sure'.
Breakdown
un- (not) + certain (sure, from Latin certus meaning 'settled'). The prefix negates the adjective to express lack of certainty or doubt.
🎵Rhyme
🔗Collocations
📝Examples
“I'm uncertain whether my cat loves me or just loves my food.”
“The students looked uncertain about the pop quiz announcement.”
“His uncertain smile made everyone wonder if he had forgotten his wallet again.”
“The economic situation remains uncertain due to global challenges.”
📚Related Words
Synonyms
Antonyms
Related
Want to master 19,000+ words?
Sign up free for flashcards & quizzes.