this uncertain time

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "this uncertain time" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to refer to a period characterized by unpredictability or instability, often in a social, economic, or personal context. Example: "Many people are feeling anxious and stressed during this uncertain time, as the future remains unclear."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

17 human-written examples

Even in this uncertain time, it felt like a glimmering remnant of the old Yugoslavia.

The New York Times

"Passengers need plenty of information about the strikes and what services will be running to allow them to plan their journeys during this uncertain time".

The Guardian

Burnham said: "Patients who rely on Hinchingbrooke will be worried about their hospital following this announcement and ministers must provide urgent reassurance and set out a plan to ensure the continuity of services at the hospital in this uncertain time.

The Guardian

"As we strive to enhance our liquidity and prudently manage our business through this uncertain time, business leaders across our organization are continually reviewing all costs and determining where they can make an impact," William L. McComb, the chief executive of Liz Claiborne, said.

The New York Times

PELOSI: So let us have a conversation where we don't have to contradict in public the statistics that you put forth, but instead can have a conversation about what will really work, and what the American people deserve from us at this uncertain time in their lives.

The Washington Post

In the time that it has taken the government to come up with no coherent Brexit plan whatsoever, the Scottish writer has produced three novels in a seasonal quartet that simultaneously reflect on and mythologise this uncertain time in our political history.

The Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

43 human-written examples

In this very uncertain time, we are fortunate to have a leader who has the patience to consider all alternatives, the credibility to build international support and the confidence to assert his policy.

Huffington Post

In these uncertain times for this industry, it feels especially troubling to lose one of its finest observers.

The Economist

This is an uncertain time for me, but I know this much: I'm more convinced than ever that our medical system is a mess and that a single-payer insurance program is the only realistic way we can achieve universal coverage, promote preventive treatment and make healthcare affordable to all.

Los Angeles Times

She said: "We recognise that none of this is easy and are very aware that this is an uncertain time for many of you.

The Guardian

"Praying for her and her family during this difficult and uncertain time," Ms. Estefan wrote on Twitter.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "this uncertain time" to acknowledge current instability or unpredictability, offering context for actions, decisions, or emotional states. For example, when discussing market fluctuations, you could say: "During this uncertain time, investors are advised to diversify their portfolios."

Common error

Avoid using "this uncertain time" as a generic filler. Ensure it directly relates to a specific situation or period. If the context is already clear, consider using more precise language to describe the nature of the uncertainty.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "this uncertain time" primarily functions as an adjective phrase modifying a noun. It serves to describe a specific period marked by instability, ambiguity, or unpredictability. As shown by Ludwig AI, it's often used to provide context for actions or emotional states during a particular situation.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Science

20%

Formal & Business

20%

Less common in

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "this uncertain time" is a grammatically correct and usable expression that describes a period characterized by instability or unpredictability. While Ludwig AI indicates its correctness, it's crucial to use it with specific context to avoid generic overuse. Related phrases include "these turbulent times" and "period of instability", each with slightly different nuances. The phrase is commonly found in News & Media, Science, and Formal & Business contexts, maintaining a neutral register. Remember to use "this uncertain time" to provide a specific context for actions or decisions, but avoid overusing it as a general filler. Be precise in describing the nature of the uncertainty for greater impact.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

these turbulent times

Focuses on the chaotic and unsettled nature of the period.

this period of instability

Highlights the lack of stability and potential for sudden change.

these unpredictable circumstances

Emphasizes the difficulty in foreseeing future events or outcomes.

this era of uncertainty

Broader term, referring to a general lack of clarity or confidence about the future.

this precarious moment

Implies a situation that is unstable and could easily become dangerous or problematic.

this challenging juncture

Highlights the difficulty and complexity of the situation.

this fluid situation

Draws attention to the ever-changing nature of the circumstances.

this ambiguous phase

Emphasizes the lack of clarity and definition.

present climate of unease

Focuses on the anxiety and worry that people are experiencing.

the current climate of volatility

Highlights the rapid and unpredictable changes occurring.

FAQs

How can I use "this uncertain time" in a sentence?

You can use "this uncertain time" to refer to a period characterized by instability or unpredictability. For example: "Many businesses are struggling to adapt during "these turbulent times"."

What are some alternatives to "this uncertain time"?

Alternatives include "period of instability", "unpredictable circumstances", or "era of uncertainty", depending on the specific context.

Is it correct to say "during this uncertain time"?

Yes, "during this uncertain time" is grammatically correct and commonly used. It sets a temporal context for an event or action.

What's the difference between "this uncertain time" and "these uncertain times"?

"This uncertain time" refers to a specific period of uncertainty, while "these uncertain times" is a more general reference to the present era or current conditions that are unstable or unpredictable.