significant uncertainty

USAGE SUMMARY

"significant uncertainty" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when you want to describe a situation where there is a large amount of doubt or lack of clarity. For example: "The future of the business remains shrouded in significant uncertainty."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

But clearly, we're entering a period of significant uncertainty.

The New York Times - Sports

Still, China's economy remains a source of significant uncertainty.

The Guardian - Business

"The outlook for the near term remains highly challenging with significant uncertainty".

The New York Times

"But mostly, it removes what was a very significant uncertainty for the company and our customers".

The New York Times

McConnell wrote a note officially rejecting the Democratic version, saying that it "creates significant uncertainty".

The New Yorker

The most significant uncertainty, however, is how much carbon humanity will choose to put into the atmosphere in the future.

The Guardian

However, we believe that this creates significant uncertainty for the sector and expect a de-rating of Punch and Enterprise.

The Guardian - Business

In a regulatory filing, the company said "there is significant uncertainty as to our long-term financial sustainability".

The New York Times

But the department warned the projections were "subject to significant uncertainty".

Independent

And methane is leaking, though there is significant uncertainty over the rate.

The New York Times

There is a significant uncertainty as to whether these projections will be achieved".

Independent

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "significant uncertainty", clearly identify the source or area to which the uncertainty applies to provide context and avoid ambiguity.

Common error

Avoid exaggerating the consequences of "significant uncertainty". While it implies considerable doubt, it doesn't necessarily equate to complete failure or disaster. Accurately represent the potential range of outcomes.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "significant uncertainty" functions as a noun phrase, where the adjective "significant" modifies the noun "uncertainty". Ludwig AI confirms that the phrase is grammatically sound and appropriate for use in written English.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

33%

Science

40%

Formal & Business

11%

Less common in

Wiki

2%

Encyclopedias

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "significant uncertainty" is a commonly used and grammatically sound phrase to express a considerable degree of doubt or unpredictability. As Ludwig AI indicates, it is suitable for various contexts, notably in news, science, and business communications. While alternatives exist, such as "considerable doubt" or "substantial ambiguity", "significant uncertainty" offers a versatile option. When employing this phrase, remember to provide adequate context to what the uncertainty pertains, and avoid exaggerating its implications. The phrase, although formal, is widely encountered, signaling its broad acceptance in the English language.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

considerable doubt

Focuses on the level of doubt involved.

substantial ambiguity

Highlights the lack of clarity or precision.

notable unpredictability

Emphasizes the inability to foresee future outcomes.

marked instability

Underscores the fluctuating or wavering nature of a situation.

serious question mark

Expresses doubt or uncertainty over something.

pronounced indefiniteness

Focuses on lack of defined limits or clarity.

major imprecision

Highlights the lack of accuracy or exactness.

real tentativeness

Emphasizes the hesitancy or lack of confidence.

palpable precariousness

Focuses on the dangerous or unstable quality.

apparent ambiguity

Suggests the lack of clarity is easily perceived.

FAQs

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

You can use "significant uncertainty" to describe situations where outcomes are unpredictable or unclear. For example, "There is "significant uncertainty" surrounding the company's future earnings".

What are some alternatives to "significant uncertainty"?

Alternatives include phrases like "considerable doubt", "substantial ambiguity", or "notable unpredictability", depending on the nuance you want to convey.

Is it better to use "significant uncertainty" or "major uncertainty"?

"Significant uncertainty" and "major uncertainty" are largely interchangeable. The choice depends on stylistic preference, though "significant uncertainty" might be perceived as slightly more formal.

What kind of situations typically involve "significant uncertainty"?

"Significant uncertainty" is often associated with economic forecasts, scientific predictions, and political situations where multiple outcomes are possible and hard to anticipate. It is used when decisions are made under pressure.