matter of uncertainty

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "matter of uncertainty" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing a situation or topic that involves doubt or lack of clarity. Example: "The decision to proceed with the project is still a matter of uncertainty, as we await further data."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

11 human-written examples

Finally and most important is the matter of uncertainty.

The New York Times - Magazine

But precisely who that candidate will be is a matter of uncertainty.

The New York Times

How to wage and win this war of words and ideas is a matter of uncertainty and debate.

The New York Times

The significance of the attack was, as is often the case, a matter of uncertainty and dispute.

The New York Times

Because of the failed drug test, Cabrera's true potential as a player has become a matter of uncertainty.

The New York Times - Sports

What to do with the land, where such tides of suffering were put in motion, has long been a matter of uncertainty.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

49 human-written examples

The chronology of the life of Jesus is one of the matters of uncertainty.

Encyclopedia Britannica

The true extent of those dangers is a matter of some uncertainty.

The Economist

Just as marine radiochemistry has languished since Chernobyl, so, too, has marine radioecology; it remains a matter of considerable uncertainty how fallout progresses through the food chain.

The New Yorker

Ever since this city was full of water and nearly empty of residents in September 2005, the true size of New Orleans has been a matter of wild uncertainty.

The New York Times

Whether Bin Ladin and his organization had roles in the 1993 attack on the World Trade Center and the thwarted Manila plot to blow up a dozen U.S. commercial aircraft in 1995 remains a matter of substantial uncertainty.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "matter of uncertainty", ensure the context clearly indicates what specifically is uncertain. Providing details enhances clarity.

Common error

While "matter of uncertainty" is acceptable, overuse in very formal writing can make your work sound repetitive. Consider diversifying your vocabulary with synonyms like "area of speculation" or "issue of doubt" to maintain reader engagement.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "matter of uncertainty" functions primarily as a noun phrase. It identifies a situation, topic, or issue characterized by a lack of clarity or predictability. Ludwig AI confirms its correct usage, highlighting that it's used to denote doubt or lack of certainty regarding something.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

32%

Science

27%

Academia

13%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

8%

Formal & Business

8%

Wiki

4%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "matter of uncertainty" is a grammatically sound and frequently used phrase that describes situations lacking clarity or definiteness. Ludwig AI confirms this, indicating its widespread use across various domains. It is especially prevalent in news, science, and academic contexts. To enhance writing, ensure the uncertain element is clearly specified and consider synonyms like "issue of doubt" or "question of ambiguity" to prevent repetition. Although the phrase is generally acceptable in both formal and informal contexts, diversifying your vocabulary can significantly improve the sophistication of your writing. Ultimately, understanding and employing these nuances will help you communicate with greater precision.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

issue of doubt

Replaces 'matter' with 'issue' and 'uncertainty' with 'doubt', focusing on the aspect of doubtfulness.

question of ambiguity

Substitutes 'matter' with 'question' and 'uncertainty' with 'ambiguity', emphasizing the lack of clear meaning.

area of speculation

Replaces the entire phrase, suggesting the topic is based on conjecture rather than fact.

point of contention

Shifts the focus to disagreement and debate surrounding the issue, rather than pure uncertainty.

source of confusion

Highlights the confusing nature of the topic, rather than just its uncertainty.

subject to debate

Emphasizes that the topic is currently under discussion and not yet resolved.

open to interpretation

Focuses on the idea that the topic can be understood in multiple ways.

shrouded in mystery

Adds a sense of intrigue and hidden information to the uncertainty.

difficult to predict

Highlights the unpredictability associated with the matter.

up in the air

An idiomatic expression indicating that the outcome is still undecided.

FAQs

How can I use "matter of uncertainty" in a sentence?

You can use "matter of uncertainty" to describe a situation where the outcome or details are unclear, for example, "The success of the new policy remains a matter of uncertainty until we see the results."

What are some alternatives to "matter of uncertainty"?

Some alternatives include "issue of doubt", "question of ambiguity", or "area of speculation", depending on the specific nuance you wish to convey.

Is "matter of uncertainty" formal or informal?

"Matter of uncertainty" is suitable for both formal and informal contexts, but in highly formal writing, consider using more precise synonyms to enhance clarity and avoid repetition.

What's the difference between "matter of uncertainty" and "matter of fact"?

"Matter of uncertainty" refers to something that is not yet known or definite, while "matter of fact" refers to something that is known to be true and cannot be disputed. They are antonyms.