during uncertain times

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "during uncertain times" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to refer to an indeterminate time period when there is a lot of uncertainty or unease, such as during a pandemic or a political crisis. For example: "During uncertain times like these, it is important to keep a positive attitude and stay connected to those around us."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

26 human-written examples

And it's only natural during uncertain times to gravitate toward investments perceived as dependable, though boring.

The New York Times

State and local governments are already planning deep budget cuts, and large gifts are often put off during uncertain times.

The New York Times

But knowing the CSA is there to fall back on has undoubtedly kept me strong during uncertain times.

The Guardian - Opinion

However during uncertain times, and with pressures to change upon them, schools appear to be treating ICT budgets with caution".

The Guardian

"One way Congress, if they really want to make a substantial difference in creating certainty during uncertain times, is to make the tax cuts we passed permanent".

The New York Times

"The choices can seem baffling – with difficult decisions to be made during uncertain times," says Richard Parkin, head of pensions at Fidelity International.

The Guardian - Money

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

32 human-written examples

DURING these uncertain times we've yet to hear a phrase with the resonance of Franklin Roosevelt's "The only thing we have to fear is fear itself," but there are a couple of minor-chord expressions that should have staying power.

The New York Times

But during these uncertain times, holding the door open for new trainees has got to be a good thing – for now at least.

The Guardian

Re "Deer in the Headlights, Financially Speaking" (Economic View, Oct. 9), in which Richard H. Thaler saw a paralysis in the reluctance of individuals and businesses to invest during these uncertain times: The column did not discuss an important point in regard to the business side of the issue: Businesses hoard cash at their own peril.

The New York Times

"Members are shocked, and reps are too, but they have to pick themselves up and do everything they can to help people get back into the job market," says Gyles. "It's about giving reps the knowledge and contacts and support so they can knock on the door of the employer and say we want services involved that can support their members' needs during these uncertain times".

Independent

And then there is the new generation of hybrid media companies that are trying to find their own path and build new businesses during these uncertain times.

TechCrunch

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "during uncertain times", consider specifying the type of uncertainty to provide more context (e.g., "during times of economic uncertainty" or "during times of political uncertainty").

Common error

While "during uncertain times" is a valid phrase, avoid overusing it in your writing. Vary your language by using synonyms like "in unstable periods" or "amidst turbulent circumstances" to maintain reader engagement.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "during uncertain times" functions as an adverbial phrase of time, specifying when something occurs. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's a correct and usable phrase, functioning as a prepositional phrase modifying a verb or clause to indicate the period in which an action takes place.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

70%

Formal & Business

15%

Science

15%

Less common in

Wiki

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "during uncertain times" is a grammatically sound and frequently used phrase to denote periods of instability or unpredictability. As Ludwig AI points out, it is correct and usable. Predominantly found in News & Media, the phrase also appears in Formal & Business and Scientific contexts. To enhance writing, consider specifying the type of uncertainty or utilizing synonyms like "amidst turbulent periods". Overusing this phrase should be avoided, and different words should be chosen for similar meanings. Remember, this phrase serves to acknowledge a specific condition and add context to the information provided.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

amidst turbulent periods

Replaces "uncertain times" with a more dramatic and literary phrase.

in moments of instability

Focuses on the lack of stability as the key characteristic of the period.

when facing instability

Highlights the act of confronting instability.

in times of economic turmoil

Specifies that the uncertainty is related to the economy.

throughout periods of change

Emphasizes the ongoing nature of the changes causing uncertainty.

while navigating unpredictability

Highlights the active effort of dealing with unpredictable events.

as things are unstable

An alternative way to highlight the instability.

during volatile circumstances

Replaces 'uncertain' with 'volatile' to emphasize the rapid and unpredictable changes.

in a climate of unpredictability

Shifts the focus to the overall atmosphere or environment of unpredictability.

when faced with precarious situations

Emphasizes the risky or dangerous nature of the uncertain circumstances.

FAQs

How can I use "during uncertain times" in a sentence?

You can use "during uncertain times" to describe a period characterized by instability or unpredictability. For example: "Many people seek comfort in familiar routines during uncertain times."

What are some alternatives to saying "during uncertain times"?

Alternatives include "amidst turbulent periods", "in moments of instability", or "in times of economic turmoil", depending on the specific context.

Is it grammatically correct to say "during uncertain times"?

Yes, "during uncertain times" is grammatically correct and widely used in English.

What is the nuance between "during uncertain times" and "in uncertain times"?

Both "during uncertain times" and "in uncertain times" are grammatically correct and often interchangeable. "During" emphasizes the temporal aspect, suggesting something happens throughout the period, while "in" focuses on the state or condition of the period.