it is unpredictable

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "it is unpredictable" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when describing something that cannot be anticipated or foreseen, often in contexts like weather, behavior, or outcomes. Example: "The weather in this region is notoriously unpredictable, making it difficult to plan outdoor events."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

Notwithstanding the opportunity of devising approximate forecast tools, we are left with a universe whose evolution is unpredictable for a reason quite different from the ones commonly adduced by resorting to standard physics, such as quantum effects or random fluctuations: it is unpredictable just because of its computational complexity.

SEP

Third, it is unpredictable.

The Economist

It is unpredictable.

The New York Times

"It is unpredictable," Aman said.

The New York Times

When nature wreaks havoc, it is unpredictable and unpreventable.

The New York Times

It is unpredictable but if the NHS is busy, we work late.

The Guardian

Yes, wind is intermittent - but that does not mean it is unpredictable.

The Guardian

For the majority of women in this country childbirth is very safe, but it is unpredictable.

The Guardian

It is unpredictable, in terms of sheer plot; inexorable when fate rules.

The New York Times

The beauty of a T20 World Cup is that it is unpredictable.

The Guardian - Sport

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

1 human-written examples

The West Nile virus, which is carried by mosquitoes, is frightening because it is unpredictable and can be lethal.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "it is unpredictable" to describe situations or phenomena where outcomes cannot be reliably anticipated due to inherent variability or complexity. For instance, "The market's reaction to the new policy is unpredictable."

Common error

Avoid using "it is unpredictable" as a catch-all phrase. Consider whether a more precise term like "uncertain", "volatile", or "erratic" might better capture the nuance of the situation.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "it is unpredictable" primarily functions as a descriptive statement. It serves to characterize a subject as lacking predictability, indicating that its future state or behavior cannot be reliably anticipated. Ludwig confirms its validity.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

48%

Science

38%

Academia

8%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

2%

Wiki

1%

Formal & Business

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "it is unpredictable" is a grammatically correct and frequently used expression to denote the lack of predictability in various contexts. As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase is appropriate for use in different source types, like news, science and academia. While the phrase enjoys broad applicability, writing guidance suggests to prefer more specific alternatives that could enrich the text. The expert rating highlights the phrase's overall effectiveness and the related phrases provided offer nuanced ways to convey similar meanings, ensuring precision in writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

it is uncertain

Focuses on the lack of certainty rather than the inability to predict.

it is erratic

Highlights the irregular and inconsistent nature of something.

it is volatile

Emphasizes the potential for sudden and dramatic changes.

it is incalculable

Stresses the impossibility of calculating or estimating something.

it is unforeseeable

Highlights that something could not have been predicted.

it is random

Suggests a lack of pattern or predictability based on chance.

it is capricious

Implies whimsical and impulsive unpredictability.

it is haphazard

Emphasizes a lack of planning or organization, leading to unpredictability.

it is contingent

Highlights that something depends on uncertain future events.

it defies prediction

Directly states the impossibility of predicting something.

FAQs

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

You can use "it is unpredictable" to describe events or situations where the outcome is uncertain and cannot be predicted. For example, "The weather this week is unpredictable, so pack for all conditions."

What are some alternatives to saying "it is unpredictable"?

You can use alternatives like "it is uncertain", "it is erratic", or "it is volatile" depending on the context.

Is it grammatically correct to say "it is unpredictable"?

Yes, "it is unpredictable" is grammatically correct and commonly used in both formal and informal contexts.

What's the difference between "it is unpredictable" and "it is uncertain"?

"It is unpredictable" emphasizes the inability to foresee or anticipate an outcome, while "it is uncertain" focuses on the lack of definite knowledge or assurance about something.