it is uncertain

USAGE SUMMARY

"It is uncertain" is correct and can be used in written English.
You can use it when something is not known or cannot be predicted. For example: "It is uncertain what the final outcome of the election will be."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Who completed it is uncertain.

Encyclopedia Britannica

It is uncertain how Schulz died.

The New Yorker

It is uncertain whether Europe can cope.

The Guardian

It is uncertain how he will fare.

The Guardian

It is uncertain when he will return.

The New York Times

It is uncertain who is next to lead Egypt.

The New York Times

But it is uncertain who Mrs. Bachmann's voters will be.

The New York Times

"It is uncertain at what point the E.C.B. steps in.

The New York Times

It is uncertain what long-term effect this will have.

The Economist

It is uncertain whether Valla was a priest or not.

Encyclopedia Britannica

But it is uncertain whether the reprieve will last.

The New York Times - Sports

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "it is uncertain", ensure the context clearly indicates what specifically is uncertain. Be precise to avoid ambiguity.

Common error

While acceptable, "it is uncertain" can sometimes sound passive. In formal writing, consider stronger verbs or more direct phrasing to convey the uncertainty with greater impact.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "it is uncertain" functions as an impersonal construction expressing doubt or lack of definitive knowledge. As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase is grammatically correct and widely used. The examples illustrate its usage across diverse subjects, highlighting its role in acknowledging unknowns.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Science

25%

Encyclopedias

10%

Less common in

Wiki

10%

Formal & Business

10%

Social Media

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "it is uncertain" is a versatile phrase used to express a lack of definite knowledge or predictability. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and widespread usage across various contexts. While suitable for formal and neutral registers, being mindful of alternatives that offer greater impact in specific situations is essential. As highlighted by the analysis, the phrase appears frequently in news, scientific, and encyclopedic contexts, emphasizing the range of its applicability. Keep in mind that depending on the case there could be other great alternatives that will help the text sound more professional.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

it is not clear

Focuses on the lack of clarity, rather than the uncertainty.

it is doubtful

Emphasizes the element of doubt, suggesting a low probability.

it remains to be seen

Highlights that the outcome will only be known in the future.

the outcome is unknown

Directly states the lack of knowledge about the result.

the future is unclear

Shifts the focus to the ambiguity of future events.

it's hard to say

A more informal way of expressing uncertainty.

there is no guarantee

Highlights the absence of assurance about a particular result.

the situation is fluid

Indicates that the circumstances are subject to change and unpredictable.

the answer is elusive

Suggests that the solution or information is difficult to find or obtain.

we cannot predict

Explicitly states the inability to foresee a specific event or outcome.

FAQs

How can I use "it is uncertain" in a sentence?

Use "it is uncertain" to express doubt or a lack of definite knowledge about something. For example, "it is uncertain whether the project will be completed on time."

What are some alternatives to "it is uncertain"?

You can use phrases like "it is not clear", "it is doubtful", or "it remains to be seen" depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is "it is uncertain" formal or informal?

"It is uncertain" is generally considered neutral to formal. While suitable for many contexts, more direct phrasing might be preferable in highly formal writing.

What does "it is uncertain" mean?

"It is uncertain" means that something is not known or cannot be predicted with confidence. The outcome or truth is not yet established.