Significant uncertainty

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "Significant uncertainty" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing situations or conditions where there is a considerable lack of certainty or predictability. Example: "The project's success is hindered by significant uncertainty regarding funding and resources."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Significant uncertainty remains, however, as to its efficacy of counteracting climate change and its side effects.

Progress in Earth and Planetary Science

Significant uncertainty exists concerning the efficiency of alpine glacial erosion relative to fluvial and hillslope processes.

Earth and Planetary Science Letters

But clearly, we're entering a period of significant uncertainty.

The New York Times - Sports

Still, China's economy remains a source of significant uncertainty.

The Guardian - Business

"The outlook for the near term remains highly challenging with significant uncertainty".

The New York Times

"But mostly, it removes what was a very significant uncertainty for the company and our customers".

The New York Times

McConnell wrote a note officially rejecting the Democratic version, saying that it "creates significant uncertainty".

The New Yorker

The most significant uncertainty, however, is how much carbon humanity will choose to put into the atmosphere in the future.

The Guardian

However, we believe that this creates significant uncertainty for the sector and expect a de-rating of Punch and Enterprise.

The Guardian - Business

In a regulatory filing, the company said "there is significant uncertainty as to our long-term financial sustainability".

The New York Times

But the department warned the projections were "subject to significant uncertainty".

Independent

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "Significant uncertainty", clearly identify the specific area or factor to which the uncertainty relates to provide context and clarity for the reader.

Common error

Avoid using "Significant uncertainty" as a blanket statement without providing supporting evidence or specific examples. This can weaken your argument and make your analysis seem less credible.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "Significant uncertainty" typically functions as a noun phrase, often serving as a subject or object within a sentence. Ludwig examples show its usage in contexts where a notable lack of predictability or clarity needs to be expressed.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

35%

Science

35%

Formal & Business

15%

Less common in

Wiki

5%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "Significant uncertainty" is a grammatically sound and frequently used phrase to denote a considerable lack of predictability or clarity. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and usability across various contexts. Predominantly found in news, scientific, and business domains, it serves to emphasize the notable degree of doubt or unpredictability. For alternative phrasing, consider options such as "considerable ambiguity" or "substantial doubt", depending on the specific nuance intended. When employing this phrase, ensure you provide clear context to the area of uncertainty, avoiding broad generalizations. The frequent usage and authoritative sources underscore its reliability in formal and neutral writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

Substantial ambiguity

Similar to considerable ambiguity, this variant emphasizes the significant extent of unclear or conflicting information.

Considerable ambiguity

Emphasizes the presence of multiple possible interpretations, highlighting a lack of clarity.

Substantial doubt

Focuses on questioning the validity or reliability of something, suggesting a lack of confidence.

Pronounced uncertainty

Emphasizes the clear and noticeable existence of uncertainty, making it easily apparent.

Major unpredictability

Highlights the inability to foresee future outcomes or events, emphasizing the lack of stability.

Great imprecision

Indicates a lack of exactness or accuracy, pointing to a level of vagueness or approximation.

Notable vagueness

Stresses the lack of specific detail or clarity, suggesting a broad or undefined area.

Appreciable indefiniteness

Emphasizes the quality of not being clearly defined or determined, suggesting a lack of boundaries.

Remarkable ambiguity

Highlights the existence of more than one possible meaning or interpretation, emphasizing the confusion.

Considerable unpredictability

Emphasizes the inability to foresee outcomes, highlighting the instability and potential for surprise.

FAQs

How can I effectively use "Significant uncertainty" in a sentence?

To effectively use "Significant uncertainty", follow it with a prepositional phrase clarifying the focus of the uncertainty. For example, "There is "significant uncertainty" regarding the project's funding" or "Significant uncertainty exists in predicting long-term climate effects".

What phrases can I use instead of "Significant uncertainty"?

You can use alternatives like "considerable doubt", "major ambiguity", or "notable vagueness" depending on the nuance you want to convey. Each highlights a slightly different aspect of the lack of certainty.

Is it better to say "significant uncertainty" or "considerable uncertainty"?

"Significant uncertainty" and "considerable uncertainty" are largely interchangeable. The choice often depends on personal preference and the overall tone of your writing. Both convey a substantial degree of uncertainty.

What's the difference between "uncertainty" and "significant uncertainty"?

"Uncertainty" generally refers to a lack of sureness, while ""significant uncertainty"" emphasizes that the lack of sureness is substantial or important. Using "significant" amplifies the degree of uncertainty.