a slight uncertainty

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a slight uncertainty" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when describing a minor doubt or lack of confidence regarding a situation or information. Example: "There was a slight uncertainty in her voice as she presented her findings to the committee."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

3 human-written examples

He isn't weak, yet something in him makes him hold back — and that something (a slight uncertainty? the fear of a commitment? a mixture of ardor and idealism?) makes him more exciting.

The New Yorker

I can't help thinking of him as a young man pretending to be older, who has put some flour on his hair, until I notice a slight uncertainty in his stride and recognize an old man's walk.

The New York Times - Magazine

However, the experimental data for Re 1 million are affected by a slight uncertainty in the stall angle as evidenced in Fig. 6 (right).

International Journal of Energy and Environmental Engineering

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

57 human-written examples

There is a further slight uncertainty about the system of "sortition from an elected shortlist".

Encyclopedia Britannica

Their two-song interlude began in slight uncertainty, with a tentative "In a Sentimental Mood".

The New York Times - Arts

Mississippi Grind is a premium showcase for his gifts: the charisma to burn, the smile of a man who seems born lucky, the slight uncertainty beneath.

The Guardian - Film

Some slight uncertainty about Enceladus' orbit means that the Cassini might have passed three or four miles closer or farther away than predicted.

The New York Times

Her slight uncertainty and all-out enthusiasm in the period dance numbers (by the show's director and choreographer, Kathleen Marshall) engagingly underscore the notion of an urban newcomer still finding her feet.

The New York Times

Most of the drugs in development are two to five years away from possible regulatory approval, federal officials say, and even once approved there would still be some slight uncertainty about how well they would work in people.

The New York Times

"And there was also the fact that I'm doing it at home, we're not – though we have all of the information as to how much bleeding is too much bleeding, you know, or that, there's always that slight uncertainty of, like, I don't really know what I'm doing".

The Guardian

Taking this information into account, 2014 is either the warmest year on record or tied for that dubious honor (with that slight uncertainty arising from the margin of error of the measurements).

Forbes

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a slight uncertainty", ensure that the context clearly indicates the area or aspect to which the uncertainty applies. This will prevent ambiguity and make your writing more precise.

Common error

Avoid using "a slight uncertainty" when the level of doubt is significant. If the uncertainty is more than just slight, use more appropriate terms like "considerable uncertainty" or "significant doubt".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a slight uncertainty" functions as a noun phrase, typically acting as a subject, object, or complement within a sentence. It describes a condition of being uncertain to a small degree. Ludwig confirms its grammatical correctness and usability.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Science

30%

Encyclopedias

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Academia

5%

Reference

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a slight uncertainty" is a grammatically sound phrase used to express a minor degree of doubt or imprecision. Ludwig AI analysis of numerous examples reveals that it appears most frequently in news and media, as well as scientific contexts. When using this phrase, ensure it accurately reflects the degree of uncertainty and that the context is clear. Remember, it's crucial to avoid overstating the uncertainty and to choose more appropriate language if the doubt is significant. Consider using alternatives like "a minor uncertainty" or "a hint of uncertainty" to add nuance to your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a minor uncertainty

Replaces "slight" with "minor", indicating a small degree of uncertainty.

a small degree of uncertainty

Rephrases to emphasize the small amount of uncertainty.

a touch of uncertainty

Uses "touch" to imply a delicate or minimal level of uncertainty.

a hint of uncertainty

Suggests a subtle or indirect indication of uncertainty.

a shade of uncertainty

Emphasizes a barely perceptible level of uncertainty.

a trace of uncertainty

Indicates a minimal or residual amount of uncertainty.

some slight doubt

Replaces "uncertainty" with "doubt", focusing on the feeling of uncertainty.

a marginal uncertainty

Uses "marginal" to highlight that the uncertainty is at the edge of relevance.

a limited uncertainty

Indicates the uncertainty is confined in scope or impact.

a modicum of uncertainty

Uses "modicum" to suggest only a small quantity of uncertainty exists.

FAQs

How can I use "a slight uncertainty" in a sentence?

You can use "a slight uncertainty" to express a minor degree of doubt or imprecision, such as: "There's "a slight uncertainty" about the exact figures." or "Despite the positive results, "a slight uncertainty" remains regarding the long-term effects."

What are some alternatives to "a slight uncertainty"?

Alternatives include "a minor uncertainty", "a small degree of uncertainty", or "a hint of uncertainty". The best choice depends on the specific nuance you wish to convey.

Is it more appropriate to say "a slight uncertainty" or "slight uncertainty"?

The inclusion of the article "a" is generally preferred for grammatical correctness. Saying "a slight uncertainty" is more standard and natural-sounding than omitting the article.

When is it inappropriate to use the phrase "a slight uncertainty"?

It's best to avoid "a slight uncertainty" when the doubt or imprecision is considerable or significant. Using it in such contexts would be an understatement and might mislead the reader about the true level of uncertainty.