uncertain circumstances

USAGE SUMMARY

"uncertain circumstances" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
It is often used to refer to a situation or state of affairs that are unpredictable or subject to change. For example, "Given the uncertain circumstances of the global economy, it is difficult to make long-term investment plans."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

40 human-written examples

However, in uncertain circumstances the government can step in.

The Guardian - Business

His close business partner, Badri Patarkatsishvili, died under uncertain circumstances in 2008.

The New York Times

Easily I can say that of the 75 million people in Iran, 45 million will have uncertain circumstances..

The New York Times

He and his sister were brought up by their mother after their father was shot to death under uncertain circumstances.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Some refugees are stuck in Molyvos for more than two days, in shifting, uncertain circumstances, waiting for a bus or a ride to the Mytilene encampments.

The New Yorker

Although Athey's work was extremely theoretical and complex, among other things it enabled economists to test their own predictions about how firms would behave in uncertain circumstances.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

18 human-written examples

Despite this uncertain circumstance, we develop an adaptive observer based on the neural networks to estimate the velocity data of USVs.

Automatica

He adds that this has been further bolstered by the significant number of people who held off for an extended period from replacing their car due to the uncertain economic circumstances who are now more willing or able to act.

The Guardian - Money

But hanging over the normal jitters was a bigger pall: most students, like Paul and Mike, were blissfully unaware that schools are opening under the most uncertain financial circumstances in years.

The New York Times

We introduce biological adaptation strategies into sliding mode control under uncertain boundary circumstance and disturbances.

Applied Mathematical Modelling

It is all speculative, but there is nothing uncertain about the circumstances that led to the two-stroke penalty.

The New York Times - Sports

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "uncertain circumstances" to describe situations that require flexibility and adaptability.

Common error

While appropriate in many contexts, avoid overuse of "uncertain circumstances" in highly formal or scientific writing. Opt for more precise terms that specify the nature of the uncertainty, such as "stochastic conditions" or "variable parameters".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "uncertain circumstances" functions primarily as a noun phrase, often serving as the object of a preposition or as a complement within a sentence. Ludwig examples illustrate its use in describing conditions affecting decisions or events, aligning with Ludwig AI's assessment of its correct usage.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Science

36%

Encyclopedias

8%

Less common in

Formal & Business

4%

Wiki

4%

Reference

4%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "uncertain circumstances" effectively describes unpredictable situations across various domains. Ludwig AI confirms its correct usage and its prevalence in news, science, and encyclopedic sources. When writing, consider the degree of formality required and opt for precise terms like "stochastic conditions" in highly formal contexts. Related phrases such as "unpredictable situations" or "unstable conditions" offer nuanced alternatives.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

unpredictable situations

Focuses on the lack of predictability in the situations.

unstable conditions

Highlights the lack of stability in the environment.

tenuous environment

Emphasizes the fragility and uncertainty of the surroundings.

precarious situations

Focuses on the dangerous or risky aspect of the circumstances.

volatile climate

Highlights the rapidly changing and unstable nature of the overall situation.

ambiguous context

Emphasizes the lack of clarity and definition in the surrounding situation.

contingent situation

Highlights that the situation is dependent on other factors that may change.

iffy conditions

Offers a more informal way to describe uncertain or questionable circumstances.

unsettled state of affairs

Emphasizes the lack of resolution or stability in the current situation.

fluid circumstances

Focuses on the changing or adaptable nature of the circumstances.

FAQs

How can I use "uncertain circumstances" in a sentence?

You can use "uncertain circumstances" to describe situations where outcomes are unpredictable. For example: "The company decided to postpone the investment due to the "uncertain circumstances" surrounding the new regulations." or "Navigating "uncertain circumstances" requires careful planning and adaptability."

What are some alternatives to "uncertain circumstances"?

Alternatives include "unpredictable situations", "unstable conditions", or "precarious situations", depending on the specific nuance you wish to convey.

Is it better to say "uncertain circumstances" or "uncertain situation"?

"Uncertain circumstances" typically refers to a broader set of conditions or factors, while "uncertain situation" describes a specific event or scenario. The best choice depends on the scope of what you're describing.

How does "uncertain circumstances" differ from "risky situation"?

"Uncertain circumstances" highlights the lack of predictability, while "risky situation" emphasizes the potential for negative outcomes. Although related, the focus shifts from not knowing what will happen to knowing that harm could occur.