remains uncertain

USAGE SUMMARY

"remains uncertain" is perfectly acceptable in written English.
You can use it when there is an unknown factor or when something cannot be predicted. For example, "The long-term effects of this new medication on the body remain uncertain."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

Vick's future remains uncertain.

The New York Times - Sports

That remains uncertain.

The New York Times

Sahiba's future remains uncertain.

The Guardian

It remains uncertain".

The New York Times - Health

Its future remains uncertain.

The Guardian

His prognosis remains uncertain.

The New York Times - Sports

Much remains uncertain.

The Guardian

Yahoo's future remains uncertain.

The New York Times - Tech

But his position remains uncertain.

Independent

Their language affiliation remains uncertain.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Barnes & Noble's future remains uncertain.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "remains uncertain", consider adding context to explain why the situation is unclear. Providing reasons or factors contributing to the uncertainty enhances the reader's understanding.

Common error

While "remains uncertain" is grammatically correct, avoid using it excessively in informal conversations or casual writing. Simpler phrases like "we don't know" or "it's unclear" may be more appropriate in such settings.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "remains uncertain" typically functions as a predicate adjective, modifying a subject and indicating a state of continuing uncertainty. Ludwig AI confirms this usage across various contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

62%

Science

19%

Encyclopedias

8%

Less common in

Wiki

2%

Formal & Business

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "remains uncertain" is a grammatically sound and frequently used expression to denote ongoing ambiguity or lack of predictability. Ludwig AI validates its acceptability and highlights its prevalence across news, scientific, and encyclopedic sources. While adaptable, it is best reserved for neutral to formal settings, ensuring a nuanced and sophisticated tone. When using "remains uncertain", provide context to clarify the reasons behind the uncertainty, enhancing clarity and comprehension.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

is still not clear

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

is yet to be determined

Highlights the aspect of a decision or conclusion that is pending.

is up in the air

An idiomatic expression suggesting a situation is unresolved and unpredictable.

is subject to change

Emphasizes the possibility of alteration, suggesting instability.

has not been decided

Focuses on the lack of a final decision or resolution.

is open to question

Highlights the debatability or contestability of a particular issue.

is shrouded in doubt

Emphasizes the presence of doubt and skepticism surrounding a situation.

is an open question

Highlights that an issue or topic is still under consideration and without a definite answer.

hangs in the balance

Suggests that the outcome is delicately poised and could go either way.

is anyone's guess

An informal way of saying that something is impossible to predict.

FAQs

How can I use "remains uncertain" in a sentence?

You can use "remains uncertain" to describe situations where the outcome is not yet known or predictable. For example, "The long-term effects of the policy "remains uncertain"."

What are some alternatives to "remains uncertain"?

Some alternatives include phrases like "is still not clear", "is yet to be determined", or "is up in the air", depending on the specific context.

Is "remains uncertain" formal or informal?

"Remains uncertain" is generally considered a formal phrase, suitable for professional, academic, and news-related contexts. In informal settings, simpler phrases might be more appropriate.

What's the difference between "remains uncertain" and "is uncertain"?

"Remains uncertain" suggests that a situation was already uncertain and continues to be so, while "is uncertain" simply indicates that a situation is currently not known or predictable. The word "remains" highlights the continuation of the uncertainty.