this is uncertain

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "this is uncertain" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when expressing doubt or lack of clarity about a situation or information. Example: "The outcome of the experiment is still pending, and this is uncertain at this point."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

On the evidence, this is uncertain.

The New York Times - Books

This is uncertain, since he's hardly tried.

The Guardian

Whether Pakistan's top generals knew of this is uncertain.

The New York Times

Though first official numbers are supposed to be published in the autumn, even this is uncertain.

The Economist

Even how the financial markets would respond to an attack on the terrorists who did this is uncertain.

The New York Times

Its fighters may find it more difficult to cross the Syrian-Turkish border, though even this is uncertain.

Independent

The plan envisions that over time the users of the water, particularly farmers, will pay the full cost of their allotment without subsidies, but this is uncertain.

The New York Times

How much time he will have to effect any of this is uncertain, if Watson is right about his next point.

The Guardian

All this is uncertain, but the bottom line is that the financial cost of a strike isn't a reason to acquiesce in mass murder in Syria.

The New York Times

The famous palace with the huge arch, called Ṭāq Kisrā, in Ctesiphon, near modern Baghdad, is said to date from Khosrow I, but this is uncertain.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Closer integration with the state may have afforded Australasian unions better protection against the adverse consequences of structural change, but this is uncertain.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "this is uncertain" to clearly communicate a lack of definitive knowledge or a degree of doubt. Be prepared to provide context or explain why the uncertainty exists.

Common error

Avoid using "this is uncertain" repeatedly in a short span without providing further explanation or alternative perspectives. Overuse can make your writing sound hesitant and lacking in substance.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "this is uncertain" functions as a statement of uncertainty, doubt, or lack of definitive knowledge. As Ludwig AI points out, the phrase is grammatically correct and usable in written English. Examples show it qualifying claims or predictions.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

25%

News & Media

25%

Wiki

25%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

8%

Formal & Business

6%

Reference

6%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "this is uncertain" is a grammatically sound and frequently used phrase for expressing doubt, ambiguity, or a lack of definite knowledge. As confirmed by Ludwig AI, its applications span diverse fields, including News & Media, Science, Encyclopedias, and Wiki. While versatile, writers should ensure contextual clarity. Alternatives like "it is not certain" can provide subtle variations in formality and emphasis. Using the phrase mindfully ensures clear communication of uncertainty.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

it is not certain

Replaces "this" with "it" and uses the more formal "not certain".

it remains doubtful

Emphasizes the continuing state of doubt.

the outcome is unclear

Focuses specifically on the uncertainty of a result or consequence.

the matter is unresolved

Focuses on the lack of a final decision or conclusion.

it is open to question

Suggests that the issue is debatable or contestable.

the truth is unknown

Highlights that facts are missing.

it's hard to say

Uses a more informal tone to express uncertainty.

the details are hazy

Highlights the lack of clarity regarding specific information.

it's up in the air

Employs an idiomatic expression to indicate that the situation is still undecided.

it's anybody's guess

Suggests that the outcome is entirely unpredictable.

FAQs

How can I rephrase "this is uncertain" to sound more formal?

For a more formal tone, you can use phrases like "it is not certain", "the matter remains unresolved", or "the outcome is subject to speculation".

What's a more casual way to say "this is uncertain"?

Informal alternatives include "it's hard to say", "it's up in the air", or "it's anybody's guess".

When is it appropriate to use "this is uncertain" in writing?

Use "this is uncertain" when you want to express doubt, ambiguity, or a lack of definitive knowledge about a situation or piece of information. It's suitable when you can't provide a definite answer or outcome.

What's the difference between "this is uncertain" and "this is questionable"?

"This is uncertain" implies a lack of definitive knowledge or predictability. "This is questionable" suggests that something is doubtful or suspicious and may not be reliable.