create uncertainty for

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "create uncertainty for" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when discussing situations or actions that lead to doubt or confusion for someone or a group. Example: "The sudden changes in policy may create uncertainty for employees regarding their job security."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

27 human-written examples

Will a referendum on Europe create uncertainty for businesses, especially for those that trade overseas?

The Guardian

He also said such a rule might create uncertainty for banks and others.

The New York Times

Large and unpredictable price fluctuations can create uncertainty for farmers and adversely impact the most vulnerable populations.

The Guardian - Opinion

But that would create uncertainty for beneficiaries and for state officials and could leave important policy questions unresolved.

The New York Times - Health

Rights activists say the law could create uncertainty for foreign couples who now have pregnant surrogates in the country.

Independent

Leaving the EU would hurt our leagues, create uncertainty for European transfers and be a step back for the next generation of footballers".

The Guardian - Sport

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

31 human-written examples

"Nevertheless, regulatory control will continue to create uncertainties for the sector".

Forbes

This creates uncertainty for the Co-op staff at its service centre in Burslem in Staffordshire.

The Guardian - Business

Those payments "created uncertainty for farmers and ranchers, and their creditors," he said.

The New York Times

BA has accused the union of "creating uncertainty for our customers".

The Guardian

The very flexibility that parents will now have creates uncertainty for employers.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Consider the audience when using this phrase. In formal contexts, it's a strong and direct way to convey a specific impact. In informal contexts, you might opt for simpler language.

Common error

Avoid using "create uncertainty for" in passive constructions where the actor is obscured. Instead of "Uncertainty was created for investors", specify who or what created the uncertainty to enhance clarity and impact.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "create uncertainty for" functions as a verb phrase that indicates the action of causing a state of doubt or lack of predictability for someone or something. Ludwig shows multiple examples in which policies, decisions, or events bring about this state of uncertainty.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Science

30%

Formal & Business

20%

Less common in

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "create uncertainty for" is a commonly used phrase, as supported by Ludwig, to describe actions or situations that cause doubt or lack of clarity. It is grammatically correct and appropriate for various contexts, especially in news, science, and business writing. While generally neutral to professional in register, it is important to consider the audience and context when using this phrase. Remember to avoid passive voice constructions and clearly identify the subject causing the uncertainty to maximize clarity. Consider alternatives like "generate doubt for", "foster ambiguity for", or "induce precariousness for" to vary your language.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

generate doubt for

Emphasizes the act of causing doubt, shifting the focus from uncertainty to a lack of conviction.

foster ambiguity for

Highlights the development of a lack of clarity, suggesting a more gradual process.

induce precariousness for

Focuses on the state of instability and risk that arises, adding a sense of danger.

bring about unpredictability for

Stresses the element of not being able to foresee outcomes, making it about future events.

engender instability for

Highlights the generation of imbalance and lack of steadiness, emphasizing disruption.

raise questions for

Emphasizes the introduction of doubt and inquiry, moving away from a direct statement of uncertainty.

cause apprehension for

Focuses on the feeling of anxiety and worry resulting from a situation, making the emotional impact primary.

spark speculation about

Highlights the initiation of guesses and conjectures, emphasizing public discourse.

lead to insecurity for

Highlights the emotional impact of feeling unsafe or unstable, shifting the focus to personal well-being.

make something less certain for

This alternative uses a more direct phrasing to convey the act of diminishing certainty.

FAQs

How can I use "create uncertainty for" in a sentence?

You can use "create uncertainty for" to describe actions or situations that cause doubt or lack of clarity. For example, "The new regulations "create uncertainty for" small businesses."

What are some alternatives to "create uncertainty for"?

You can use alternatives like "generate doubt for", "foster ambiguity for", or "induce precariousness for" depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it better to say "create uncertainty for" or "creates uncertainty for"?

The correct form depends on the subject of your sentence. Use "create uncertainty for" with plural subjects (e.g., "These changes create uncertainty") and "creates uncertainty for" with singular subjects (e.g., "This change creates uncertainty").

What is the difference between "create uncertainty for" and "reduce uncertainty for"?

"Create uncertainty for" implies causing doubt or instability, while "reduce uncertainty for" means diminishing or alleviating existing doubt. They are opposite in meaning and should be used accordingly.