Uncertain about

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "Uncertain about" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when expressing doubt or lack of clarity regarding a specific topic or situation. Example: "I am uncertain about the final decision regarding the project timeline."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Uncertain about a Career path?

University of California, Berkeley

Uncertain about their income or home environment".

The Guardian

Uncertain about the future, he may not make the investment.

The Economist

He was uncertain about Barr.

The New Yorker

I feel uncertain about all this.

The New York Times

Scientists are uncertain about this.

The Washington Post

The brothers remain uncertain about the future.

The New York Times

Osborne is equally uncertain about the future.

Independent

But she was uncertain about the causes.

The Guardian

He often felt uncertain about roles.

The Economist

I'm uncertain about my relationships.

The New York Times - Arts

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "uncertain about", clearly state the object of your uncertainty to avoid ambiguity. For example, instead of saying "I am uncertain about it", specify "I am uncertain about the project timeline."

Common error

Avoid using "uncertain about" without providing context. Saying "I'm uncertain" leaves the reader wondering what you are unsure of. Always specify the subject of your uncertainty for clarity.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "uncertain about" primarily functions as an adjectival phrase, modifying a subject by expressing a state of doubt, hesitation, or lack of definite knowledge regarding a specific topic. This is consistent with Ludwig's examples demonstrating its use to describe feelings or assessments.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

43%

Science

20%

Academia

7%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

2%

Wiki

2%

Formal & Business

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "uncertain about" is a grammatically correct and frequently used expression to convey doubt or a lack of clarity regarding a specific subject. As indicated by Ludwig, it functions primarily as an adjectival phrase and is employed in a variety of contexts, ranging from news and media to academic and scientific writing. While alternatives like "unsure of" exist, "uncertain about" maintains a versatile and widely accepted presence in English communication. Remember to provide clear context when using this phrase to avoid ambiguity.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

Unsure of

Replaces "about" with "of", slightly altering the prepositional usage.

Not certain about

Introduces negation and replaces "uncertain" with "not certain", adding emphasis.

In doubt regarding

Replaces "uncertain" with "in doubt" and "about" with the more formal "regarding".

Questioning

Uses a verb form to express uncertainty or doubt, changing the sentence structure.

Having doubts about

Emphasizes the presence of doubts, shifting the focus slightly.

Skeptical of

Expresses a degree of doubt or disbelief, suggesting a critical perspective.

Apprehensive about

Highlights a feeling of anxiety or fear about something, adding an emotional component.

Hesitant regarding

Implies a pause or reluctance due to uncertainty, using a more formal preposition.

Wary of

Indicates caution or distrust, suggesting a potential risk or danger.

Ambivalent about

Expresses mixed feelings or contradictory ideas about something, indicating a complex state of uncertainty.

FAQs

How can I use "Uncertain about" in a sentence?

"Uncertain about" is used to express doubt or a lack of confidence regarding something. For example, "I am "uncertain about" the weather forecast" or "She seemed "uncertain about" her decision."

What are some alternatives to saying "Uncertain about"?

You can use phrases like "unsure of", "not certain about", or "in doubt regarding" to express a similar meaning.

Is there a difference between "Uncertain about" and "Unsure about"?

While both phrases convey a lack of certainty, ""uncertain about"" might suggest a slightly more formal or reflective tone, whereas "unsure about" is generally more common in everyday conversation. The difference is subtle and context-dependent.

When is it appropriate to use "Uncertain about" in writing?

"Uncertain about" is suitable in various contexts, from formal reports and academic papers to news articles and personal correspondence. It's a versatile phrase for expressing doubt or a lack of clarity. Consider using more informal alternatives like "unsure of" in casual settings.