to avoid uncertainty

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "to avoid uncertainty" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing strategies or actions taken to eliminate doubt or ambiguity in a situation. Example: "We implemented a detailed plan to avoid uncertainty in the project's timeline."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

43 human-written examples

The document suggested that governments might have to require banks to participate to avoid uncertainty in the markets.

The New York Times

The document also suggested that governments might have to require banks to participate to avoid uncertainty in the markets.

The New York Times

Now investors are flocking to bond funds; they are paying to avoid uncertainty — to avoid the prospect of financial Armageddon.

The New York Times - Magazine

The government wants to pass its legislation by the end of next week, citing the need to avoid uncertainty for the university sector and students.

The Guardian

It means not just resisting the deep impulse to choose up sides to avoid uncertainty, but also challenging our blind spots and wrestling with our infinite capacity for self-deception.

The New York Times

Keen to avoid uncertainty and instability in the bloc, the EU-27 have said since the referendum in June that Britain should leave as soon as practically possible – although it was accepted that London needs time to define its position.

The Guardian

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

17 human-written examples

That may lure customers seeking to avoid uncertainties over the currency exchange rate.

The New York Times

The contract expires at the end of this year and Mr. Gulotta and the union representatives are trying to hammer out an agreement in order to avoid uncertainties if the control board should take over.

The New York Times

Mr Putin hinted at several reasons in his short announcement: he wanted to "avoid uncertainties" by defining the new government early perhaps a sign that he wants to cut short infighting for the job of prime minister.

The Economist

For the conceptual design this has meant, among others, a drive to avoid uncertainties and/or to make (very) conservative assumptions in case uncertainties could not be avoided.

Energy Procedia

Care has been taken during the collection of data to avoid uncertainties and followed the methodologies proposed and explained in the ISO guide (International Standards Organization 1992).

Renewables: Wind, Water, and Solar

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using the phrase "to avoid uncertainty", ensure that the context clearly defines what specific actions are being taken or proposed to mitigate potential ambiguities or doubts. Being specific enhances the clarity and impact of your statement.

Common error

Avoid using "to avoid uncertainty" as a vague justification. Instead of saying, "We need more data to avoid uncertainty", specify the type of data and how it will reduce specific uncertainties relevant to the situation. For instance, "We need to conduct user surveys to avoid uncertainty about market demand."

Linguistic Context

The phrase "to avoid uncertainty" functions primarily as an infinitive phrase expressing purpose. It explains the reason or intention behind an action, as demonstrated in the provided examples from Ludwig. The Ludwig AI validates its grammatical correctness and common usage.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

39%

News & Media

37%

Formal & Business

24%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "to avoid uncertainty" is a versatile and frequently used expression that clearly conveys the intent to prevent potential ambiguities or doubts. As confirmed by Ludwig AI, it is grammatically sound and widely applicable across various contexts. The phrase appears most commonly in scientific and news-related sources, suggesting a neutral to formal register. When using this phrase, be specific about the actions taken and the uncertainties being addressed to maximize clarity. Alternatives like "to eliminate doubt" or "to ensure clarity" can provide subtle variations in meaning.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

in order to preclude uncertainty

This alternative is more formal and emphasizes preventing uncertainty from arising in the first place.

so as to circumvent uncertainty

This alternative suggests skillfully avoiding or finding a way around uncertainty.

with the aim of averting uncertainty

This emphasizes the intention or goal of preventing uncertainty.

for the purpose of mitigating uncertainty

This alternative focuses on reducing the impact or severity of uncertainty, rather than completely avoiding it.

in an effort to forestall uncertainty

Similar to 'preclude', it highlights taking action in advance to prevent uncertainty.

to preclude any ambiguity

Focuses specifically on eliminating ambiguity as a form of uncertainty.

to eliminate any doubt

Addresses the removal of doubt, another facet of uncertainty.

to ensure clarity

Shifts the focus to promoting clarity, which implicitly reduces uncertainty.

for the sake of predictability

Highlights the desire for predictable outcomes as a reason for avoiding uncertainty.

with a view to diminishing uncertainty

Indicates a proactive approach to reduce the extent of uncertainty.

FAQs

How can I use "to avoid uncertainty" in a sentence?

Use "to avoid uncertainty" to introduce the reason for a particular action or decision. For example: "The company implemented new protocols "to avoid uncertainty" regarding data security."

What are some alternatives to "to avoid uncertainty"?

You can use alternatives like "to eliminate doubt", "to ensure clarity", or "to mitigate risks" depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it better to say "to avoid uncertainty" or "in order to avoid uncertainty"?

Both are grammatically correct, but "to avoid uncertainty" is generally more concise and preferred in most contexts. "In order to avoid uncertainty" can be used for added emphasis.

In what situations is it most appropriate to use the phrase "to avoid uncertainty"?

The phrase "to avoid uncertainty" is best used in situations where clarity, precision, and predictability are highly valued, such as in legal documents, scientific research, or business plans. It's also suitable when explaining preventative measures.