a level of unpredictability

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a level of unpredictability" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing the degree or extent to which something is unpredictable or uncertain. Example: "The weather in this region has a level of unpredictability that makes planning outdoor events challenging."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

6 human-written examples

Unlike a face-off with programmed responses, playing against real people adds a level of unpredictability.

The New York Times - Tech

After that change, and with the security concerns in the wake of the Sept. 11 terrorist attacks, standard service seemed to lag, and puzzling variations in policy enforcement introduced a level of unpredictability that could wreak havoc with touring schedules.

The New York Times - Arts

Conversely, the batting average a pitcher allows on balls in play (all plays that do not fall under the three true outcomes) typically fluctuates wildly from year to year, possessing a level of unpredictability that suggests it is determined mostly by factors beyond his control.

The New York Times

Energy economist Ryan Wiser of Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory in California says that any one wind turbine can fail and that in general the power source "has a level of unpredictability" greater than for most traditional sources.

Science Magazine

Although this strategy enables the design size to be expanded practically without limit, one typically sacrifices knowledge of the exact internal workings of the device, introducing a level of unpredictability into device performance that may require a new engineering paradigm to be made acceptable.

Applied Nanotechnology The Conversion of Research Results to Products

There's a level of unpredictability in Grandtheft's work, something that may not peak in the brain until the next second, but settles in the spine and flushes through the tissue, making for a coaxing release.

Vice

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

53 human-written examples

Punters accept a level of improvised unpredictability in street food, but the prices have to reflect that.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

But they note that escape-route variability is not uncommon elsewhere in the animal world, so through further experimentation it might be possible to develop a general theory of how animals maintain a certain level of unpredictability.

The New York Times - Science

Unexpected defeats on two unrelated floor votes last week hinted at a new level of unpredictability facing the speaker, John A. Boehner.

The New York Times

So at the moment we're trying to tackle a systemic problem which involves long-term displacement by very short-term appeals – often three months to six months – and a high level of unpredictability.

The Guardian

And his attitude toward Iran is more aggressive than past leaders, which could introduce a new level of unpredictability from the Saudi side.

Vice

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a level of unpredictability", ensure that the context clearly defines what is unpredictable. Providing specific examples or explanations enhances clarity and avoids ambiguity.

Common error

Avoid using "a level of unpredictability" without specifying the domain or situation to which it applies. General statements can be vague; be precise about what aspects are unpredictable.

Linguistic Context

"A level of unpredictability" functions as a noun phrase, often serving as the object of a verb or following a preposition. It quantifies the degree to which something is unpredictable or uncertain. As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase is grammatically correct and usable in various contexts.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Science

30%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Wiki

7%

Encyclopedias

7%

Reference

6%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a level of unpredictability" is a grammatically correct and usable phrase that describes the degree to which something is unpredictable or uncertain. As Ludwig AI confirms, its usage spans across various contexts, most commonly in news, media, and scientific domains. While not exceptionally frequent, its presence in authoritative sources like The New York Times and The Guardian underscores its legitimacy. When employing this phrase, be sure to specify the context to avoid ambiguity. Consider alternatives like "degree of uncertainty" or "element of surprise" to nuance your expression. While this phrase is usable in a variety of contexts, remember that a well-written piece focuses on clarity and avoids misinterpretations.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

degree of uncertainty

Emphasizes the presence of uncertainty but uses different wording.

extent of unpredictability

Focuses on the scope or range of unpredictable elements.

amount of uncertainty

Highlights the quantity or measure of uncertain outcomes.

measure of unpredictability

Suggests an assessment or quantification of unpredictable aspects.

element of surprise

Focuses specifically on the unexpected and surprising nature.

risk of the unknown

Highlights the potential dangers and uncertainties associated with the unknown.

chance of the unexpected

Indicates the possibility of unforeseen events or outcomes.

potential for surprise

Emphasizes the inherent possibility of unexpected occurrences.

likelihood of the unforeseen

Focuses on the probability that unforeseen events will happen.

capacity for uncertainty

Highlights the ability to accommodate or handle uncertainty.

FAQs

How can I use "a level of unpredictability" in a sentence?

Use "a level of unpredictability" to describe situations where outcomes are not easily predicted. For example, "The stock market has "a level of unpredictability" that makes it difficult for new investors."

What is a good substitute for "a level of unpredictability"?

Alternatives include "degree of uncertainty", "element of surprise", or "amount of uncertainty", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it better to say "a high level of unpredictability" or "a great level of unpredictability"?

"A high level of unpredictability" is generally preferred because it's more common and idiomatic. "Great level" isn't incorrect, but "high level" sounds more natural in most contexts.

What does "a level of unpredictability" imply?

It implies that there is a degree of uncertainty or randomness in a situation, making it difficult to anticipate future outcomes or behaviors. It suggests that outcomes can vary significantly and unexpectedly.