uncertainty lingers

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "uncertainty lingers" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a situation where doubt or ambiguity remains present over a period of time. Example: "Even after the meeting, uncertainty lingers about the project's future direction."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

25 human-written examples

Still, the uncertainty lingers.

The New York Times - Sports

Where uncertainty lingers, it is largely concentrated on Washington.

The New York Times

For Pharbati and her brothers, too, the uncertainty lingers.

The Guardian

The mood is optimistic but beneath the surface uncertainty lingers.

The Guardian - Sport

Though uncertainty lingers, things look good for now.

The New York Times

But uncertainty lingers over the long-term effects on the region's fish, and fishing industry.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

35 human-written examples

Uncertainty lingered over who would be playing each night.

The New York Times - Sports

Law enforcement officials criticized the coroner's comments, but no official determination followed and uncertainty lingered.

The Washington Post

San Francisco's 'Sanctuary City' status might have provided some small psychological comfort but still uncertainty lingered.

The Guardian - Sport

But as the time passed and the uncertainty lingered, some county clerks took matters into their own hands.

The New York Times

[C2.] Uncertainty Lingering at MBIA Shares of MBIA fell amid uncertainty about the insurance investigation, and the prospect of further restatements, which has driven concerns about MBIA's status.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "uncertainty lingers" to convey a sense of unresolved doubt or ambiguity that persists over time, particularly in situations where resolution is expected or desired.

Common error

Avoid using "uncertainty lingers" in very casual or informal settings. Opt for simpler language like "we're still not sure" to maintain a natural tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "uncertainty lingers" typically functions as a clause element within a sentence, often acting as a comment on a situation or event. Ludwig AI states the expression is correct. It suggests a state of unresolved doubt or ambiguity that persists over time, as seen in the example: "The mood is optimistic but beneath the surface uncertainty lingers."

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

75%

Science

15%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "uncertainty lingers" effectively conveys a persistent state of doubt or ambiguity. As confirmed by Ludwig AI, it is grammatically correct and commonly used in various contexts, especially in news, media, and scientific publications. While appropriate for formal writing, simpler alternatives may be better suited for casual settings. To enhance clarity, ensure it clearly links to the specific subject or situation where uncertainty persists.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

doubt persists

Focuses on the continuation of doubt rather than the prolonged presence of uncertainty.

unease lingers

Highlights the persistence of discomfort or anxiety.

doubts remain

Focuses specifically on the continuation of feelings of doubt.

apprehension remains

Emphasizes the feeling of unease or fear that continues to exist.

ambiguity continues

Highlights the ongoing lack of clarity or definiteness.

concerns continue

Highlights the continuation of worries or anxieties.

questions endure

Focuses on the persistence of unanswered questions.

reservations persist

Emphasizes that feelings of doubt or hesitation are ongoing.

unknowns remain

Focuses on the continuing presence of things that are not known.

issues persist

Indicates that problems or unresolved matters are still present.

FAQs

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

You can use "uncertainty lingers" to express that a feeling of doubt or a lack of clarity remains after an event or discussion. For example, "Even after the announcement, "uncertainty lingers" about the company's future."

What's a simpler way to say "uncertainty lingers"?

Alternatives to "uncertainty lingers" include phrases like "doubt persists", "questions remain", or "it's still unclear", depending on the specific context.

Is "uncertainty lingers" appropriate for formal writing?

Yes, "uncertainty lingers" is suitable for formal writing, especially in contexts where you want to convey a sense of ongoing ambiguity or unresolved issues in a professional or academic setting.

What's the difference between saying "uncertainty remains" and "uncertainty lingers"?

While both phrases convey that uncertainty is still present, "uncertainty remains" simply states the fact of its continued existence. "Uncertainty lingers" suggests that the uncertainty is subtly present and perhaps difficult to dispel.