uncertainty around

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase 'uncertainty around' is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
This phrase is usually used to describe an ambiguity or lack of clarity concerning a particular subject. For example, "There is a lot of uncertainty around the timeline for when the project will be completed."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Ofgem also highlighted uncertainty around supply and demand for electricity.

Independent

But it added there was "considerable uncertainty" around this judgement.

Independent

Infrastructure companies could face uncertainty around new regulatory regimes".

The Guardian - Business

"It's a combination of that plus uncertainty around the economy.

The New York Times

There's also uncertainty around the value.

Forbes

Also, uncertainty around the labor deal remains.

Forbes

Moreover, there is the uncertainty around these measures.

Swiss Journal of Economics and Statistics

"It still looks like the regulatory uncertainty around carbon continues".

Huffington Post

Uncertainty around patient costs is startling.

Health Policy and Planning

However, there was much uncertainty around this result.

BMC Health Services Research

Probabilistic sensitivity analysis revealed substantial uncertainty around these point estimates.

ClinicoEconomics and Outcomes Research

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "uncertainty around", clearly specify the subject or area to which the uncertainty pertains to avoid ambiguity. For example, instead of saying "There is uncertainty around the project", specify "There is uncertainty around the project's timeline".

Common error

Avoid using "uncertainty around" in overly broad contexts without providing specific details. Statements like "There's uncertainty around everything" are vague and lack informative value. Instead, pinpoint the specific areas of uncertainty to make your statement more meaningful.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "uncertainty around" functions as a prepositional phrase, typically modifying a noun to indicate a lack of certainty or clarity concerning that noun. As Ludwig AI indicates, this phrase is acceptable in written English.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

52%

News & Media

46%

Formal & Business

2%

Less common in

Reference

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "uncertainty around" is a grammatically correct and widely used phrase to express a lack of clarity or predictability about a particular subject. Ludwig AI confirms its acceptability and the examples showcase its versatility across diverse contexts, including news, science, and business. While generally neutral in tone, it's crucial to specify the subject of the uncertainty for clarity. Consider alternatives like "ambiguity surrounding" or "doubt concerning" to fine-tune the specific nuance you wish to convey. When writing, avoid overgeneralization to maintain precision and impact. Overall, "uncertainty around" is a useful tool for describing situations where information is incomplete or outcomes are unpredictable.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

lack of clarity regarding

Focuses on the absence of clear information or understanding, rather than general uncertainty.

ambiguity surrounding

Emphasizes the presence of multiple possible interpretations, shifting focus from uncertainty to interpretational difficulties.

unknowns pertaining to

Highlights the presence of factors that are not yet known or understood, emphasizing gaps in knowledge.

vagueness surrounding

Highlights a lack of precision or detail, indicating that something is ill-defined or unclear.

doubt concerning

Directly highlights skepticism or disbelief about something, creating a more negative connotation.

open questions about

Emphasizes that certain issues are unresolved and still under investigation, suggesting a need for further inquiry.

unpredictability related to

Focuses on the inability to foresee future events or outcomes, highlighting the potential for surprises.

indecision surrounding

Highlights a state of being unable to make a firm choice, pointing to a specific type of uncertainty.

instability concerning

Shifts the focus to a lack of stability or predictability, implying potential for sudden changes.

risks associated with

Shifts the focus to potential negative consequences or dangers, creating a more alarming tone.

FAQs

How can I use "uncertainty around" in a sentence?

You can use "uncertainty around" to describe situations where there is a lack of clarity or predictability. For instance, "There is considerable "uncertainty around" the new regulations".

What's a good alternative to "uncertainty around"?

Depending on the context, you could use alternatives such as "ambiguity surrounding", "doubt concerning", or "lack of clarity regarding".

How does "uncertainty around" differ from "risk associated with"?

"Uncertainty around" generally refers to a lack of predictability or clarity, while "risks associated with" implies potential negative consequences or dangers. The former is neutral, the latter is negative.

Is "uncertainty around" formal or informal?

"Uncertainty around" can be used in both formal and informal contexts. It is common in news, scientific reports, and general conversation, making it a versatile phrase.