foster uncertainty

USAGE SUMMARY

"foster uncertainty" is a grammatically correct phrase that can be used in written English.
For example, "Her responses to the staff meeting questions seemed to foster uncertainty among her colleagues."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

4 human-written examples

"Challenges with the economy and governance will continue to foster uncertainty about the long-term prospects for the country," the report states.

The New York Times

Scenarios were understood and developed in two ways: as descriptions of plausible, desirable and realistic future developments (the 'micro-future scenarios') and as a means to foster uncertainty awareness (the 'general scenarios').

European Journal of Futures Research

Contrary to popular belief, making people wait for numbers is usually counter-productive, as it tends to either upset them or foster uncertainty.

Huffington Post

These plans are wildly unpopular among parents and children, according to Brown University Education professor Kenneth Wong, because they foster uncertainty.

Huffington Post

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

56 human-written examples

The dithering fosters uncertainty, and one-shot rebates won't work.

The New York Times

He added, "The inability to determine their worth has fostered uncertainty about mortgage assets and even about the financial condition of the institutions that own them".

The New York Times

Despite Prescott's impressive pre-season, Romo's absence fosters uncertainty as Jason Garrett, embarking on his sixth full season as head coach, seeks to return the Cowboys to greatness.

The Guardian - Sport

We have detected ER stress in some experimental paradigms but not in others, which fosters uncertainty about the role of this pathway as a primary pathogenic insult (8, 25– 25).

Human Molecular Genetics

Foster foster foster!

Vice

The harsh discord among Ireland's 4.5 million people will be played out in Parliament, where Mr. Cowen's coalition has crumbled, fostering uncertainties over the austerity plan and the bailout.

The New York Times

"A measured pace of tightening will merely foster continued uncertainty in the financial markets, which will weigh on valuations," Mr. Abrams said.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "foster uncertainty", consider the specific type of uncertainty you are referring to (e.g. economic, political, scientific) to provide context and clarity for your audience.

Common error

Avoid using "foster uncertainty" in scenarios where simpler terms like "cause doubt" or "create confusion" would be more appropriate. Overusing sophisticated vocabulary can make your writing sound pretentious.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "foster uncertainty" functions as a verb phrase where 'foster' (verb) acts upon 'uncertainty' (noun). It describes the act of promoting or encouraging a state of being uncertain. As seen in Ludwig, it indicates actions or situations that increase ambiguity or doubt.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Science

41%

Formal & Business

8%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "foster uncertainty" is a grammatically correct and relatively formal way to describe the act of promoting or encouraging a state of doubt or ambiguity. As confirmed by Ludwig, it's used in various contexts, including news, science, and business, to highlight actions or situations that increase uncertainty. While alternatives like "encourage doubt" or "generate ambiguity" exist, the choice depends on the specific nuance you wish to convey. When using "foster uncertainty", consider the type of uncertainty and avoid overuse in simplistic scenarios to maintain clarity and avoid pretentiousness.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

encourage doubt

This alternative focuses on the act of promoting doubt rather than uncertainty.

promote skepticism

This alternative highlights the promotion of a questioning attitude.

generate ambiguity

This alternative emphasizes the creation of unclear or inexact situations.

breed insecurity

This alternative centers on creating a lack of confidence or assurance.

cultivate apprehension

This alternative stresses the development of anxiety or fear.

induce skepticism

This suggests causing skepticism, rather than nurturing uncertainty more broadly.

create confusion

Focuses specifically on a state of being bewildered or unclear.

provoke doubt

Emphasizes the act of instigating doubt.

fuel speculation

Implies encouraging conjecture and uncertain predictions.

exacerbate unease

Focuses on intensifying a feeling of discomfort or anxiety.

FAQs

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

You can use "foster uncertainty" to describe actions or events that increase ambiguity or doubt. For example, "The company's vague statements "foster uncertainty" among investors".

What's a good alternative to "foster uncertainty"?

Depending on the context, you could use alternatives such as "encourage doubt", "generate ambiguity", or "promote skepticism".

In what contexts is it appropriate to use the phrase "foster uncertainty"?

The phrase "foster uncertainty" is appropriate in contexts where actions or situations lead to increased doubt, ambiguity, or a lack of clear understanding, particularly in complex matters such as economics, politics, or science.

Is "foster uncertainty" formal or informal?

The phrase "foster uncertainty" is relatively formal and is suited to professional, academic, and journalistic contexts. In more casual settings, simpler terms might be more suitable.