an uncertain

USAGE SUMMARY

"an uncertain" is a valid phrase in written English and can be used when referring to a lack of certainty about something or when stating that a future event or outcome is uncertain.
Example: It is an uncertain future that we face, but together we can make a better tomorrow.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

For Pato, an uncertain future.

The New York Times - Sports

It is an uncertain future.

The New York Times

Economic forecasting is always an uncertain business.

The New York Times

The spare embryos face an uncertain future.

The Economist

We always live in an uncertain world".

The New York Times

Banks have cited an uncertain regulatory climate.

The New York Times

But their alternative is an uncertain prospect.

The Economist

Those that stay face an uncertain fate.

The Economist

But this is an uncertain venture.

The New York Times

Kashua is an uncertain, even timid teacher.

The New Yorker

Asset purchases have an uncertain impact, too.

The Economist

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "an uncertain", ensure the context clearly indicates what is uncertain: an outcome, a future, a feeling, etc.

Common error

While "an uncertain" is common, overuse in formal contexts can weaken your writing. Consider stronger, more precise synonyms to add impact and clarity.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "an uncertain" typically functions as a modifier, specifically an adjective, describing a noun. As Ludwig AI points out, it denotes a state of unpredictability, doubt, or lack of definiteness.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

75%

Science

15%

Formal & Business

5%

Less common in

Academia

2%

Wiki

2%

Reference

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "an uncertain" is a common and grammatically correct adjective phrase used to describe something lacking predictability or definiteness. As Ludwig AI shows, it appears frequently in news, media and scientific contexts. While versatile, make sure the context clarifies what exactly is uncertain. Consider stronger synonyms for emphasis and clarity in formal writing. Always ensure that its use accurately reflects the intended meaning and context.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a doubtful

Highlights the presence of doubt, rather than a neutral uncertainty.

a precarious

Emphasizes instability or risk, rather than just lack of certainty.

a questionable

Suggests that something is open to debate or challenge.

a tentative

Conveys a sense of being provisional or subject to change.

a volatile

Implies potential for sudden and dramatic change.

a hazy

Emphasizes lack of clarity or definition.

a fluctuating

Emphasizes the quality of irregular variation.

a speculative

Suggests reliance on conjecture rather than firm evidence.

a fluid

Highlights the potential for change and lack of fixed form.

a touch-and-go

Highlights the precariousness of a situation.

FAQs

How can I use "an uncertain" in a sentence?

You can use "an uncertain" to describe something that lacks predictability or is not definitely known. For example: "The company faces "an uncertain future"".

What phrases are similar to "an uncertain"?

Similar phrases include "a doubtful", "a precarious", or "a questionable" depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it better to use "an uncertain" or "a questionable"?

"An uncertain" generally refers to something whose outcome is unknown. "A questionable" suggests something is dubious or of doubtful validity. The best choice depends on the specific meaning you intend to express.

When is it appropriate to use the phrase "an uncertain"?

The phrase "an uncertain" is appropriate when describing situations, outcomes, or conditions where the future is not predictable or definite, such as "an uncertain market" or "an uncertain outcome".