source of uncertainty

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "source of uncertainty" is grammatically correct and can be used in written English.
Example: The fluctuating stock market was a major source of uncertainty for investors.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Legal issues are one source of uncertainty.

The Economist

That is by itself a source of uncertainty.

The Guardian - Business

But it is rarely a source of uncertainty.

The Economist

But the bail-out itself is another source of uncertainty.

The Economist

In this uncertain context, Xi is, himself, a source of uncertainty.

The Guardian - Opinion

The bridge has been a source of uncertainty from its inception.

The New York Times

Yet the greatest source of uncertainty is political and home-grown.

The Guardian

Enron's own trip through bankruptcy is another source of uncertainty for structured finance.

The New York Times

Instead, the fair is yet another source of uncertainty in a country teeming with it.

The New York Times - Books

The biggest immediate source of uncertainty will be the Portuguese government itself.

The Economist

(The Yankees have refused to elaborate on Giambi's condition, making it a continuing source of uncertainty in the clubhouse).

The New York Times - Sports

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "source of uncertainty", clearly identify the specific element or situation that creates the uncertainty. Be as precise as possible to avoid ambiguity.

Common error

Avoid using "source of uncertainty" as a vague placeholder. Instead of saying "the economy is a source of uncertainty", specify which aspect of the economy (e.g., "interest rate fluctuations") is the actual "source of uncertainty".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "source of uncertainty" functions as a noun phrase that typically acts as a subject complement or an object in a sentence. It identifies the origin or cause of a state of doubt, unpredictability, or lack of sureness. Ludwig AI indicates that this phrase is grammatically correct.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

41%

News & Media

38%

Formal & Business

21%

Less common in

Wiki

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "source of uncertainty" is a grammatically correct and commonly used noun phrase that identifies the origin or cause of unpredictability or doubt. It appears frequently in scientific and news contexts. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and widespread use. When using this phrase, it's crucial to be specific about what is creating the uncertainty. Related phrases include "origin of doubt" and "cause of instability". Avoiding overgeneralization is a key writing best practice.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

origin of doubt

Focuses on the feeling of doubt as the origin rather than the broader concept of uncertainty.

cause of instability

Highlights the potential for instability resulting from the identified source.

root of unpredictability

Emphasizes the lack of predictability stemming from the source.

reason for ambiguity

Zeroes in on the presence of ambiguity caused by the specified factor.

basis for unease

Suggests a feeling of unease or anxiety resulting from the source.

wellspring of confusion

Indicates the presence of confusion that arises from the specified factor.

driver of volatility

Highlights the dynamic and potentially erratic nature of the uncertainty.

reason for imprecision

Implies a lack of accuracy or exactness due to the specified source.

factor of unpredictability

Focuses on the factor aspect that causes unpredictability.

generator of risk

Suggests the potential for adverse outcomes as a result of the source.

FAQs

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

You can use "source of uncertainty" to identify what is causing doubt or unpredictability in a situation. For example, "The lack of clear regulations is a major "source of uncertainty" for the industry."

What are some alternatives to "source of uncertainty"?

Depending on the context, you can use alternatives like "origin of doubt", "cause of instability", or "root of unpredictability".

Is it better to use "source of uncertainty" or "factor of uncertainty"?

Both "source of uncertainty" and "factor of uncertainty" are grammatically correct and can be used interchangeably in many cases. The choice often depends on the specific nuance you want to convey. "Source" implies an origin, while "factor" suggests a contributing element.

What's the difference between "source of uncertainty" and "source of risk"?

"Source of uncertainty" refers to the origin of unpredictability or doubt, whereas "source of risk" specifically points to the origin of potential harm or loss. Uncertainty doesn't necessarily imply a negative outcome, while risk does.