unpredictable element

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "unpredictable element" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a factor or aspect that cannot be anticipated or foreseen, often in contexts like science, art, or decision-making. Example: "The weather is an unpredictable element that can greatly affect our outdoor event plans."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

39 human-written examples

And that's perhaps the most unpredictable element of all.

The New York Times

But the forthcoming wedding introduces a new and unpredictable element.

The New York Times

And there's another unpredictable element the two agree on – the frequently atrocious British weather.

The Guardian - Money

That instinctive, improvised, unpredictable element, he says, makes for great entertainment: "You feel that electricity.

The Guardian - Film

Fuel prices also are an unpredictable element in the airline industry.

The New York Times

O'Rourke's decision added another unpredictable element to an already sprawling Democratic primary contest.

The Washington Post

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

21 human-written examples

If you want to take photos in unpredictable elements, you always have to be prepared.

The New York Times

Ticket buyers have always gambled on unpredictable elements ranging from weather to the personalities of fans around them.

The New York Times - Sports

A happy blend of the natural and fabricated is the garden, where design receives a boost or a boot from the unpredictable elements.

The New York Times

Accuracy may be further compromised by unpredictable elements, ranging from bad weather, a pocked field and a hasty last-minute drive that leaves the chain gang scrambling to get into place before the ball is snapped.

The New York Times - Sports

Packing two extended families into one big room and having them stare at you for an hour before they tank up on free bubbly is almost no one's recipe for bliss – there are just too many unpredictable elements.

The Guardian - Opinion

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "unpredictable element", ensure the context clearly defines what makes the element unpredictable. Provide specific examples or scenarios to illustrate its potential impact.

Common error

Avoid exaggerating the influence of the "unpredictable element". Acknowledge other contributing factors and maintain a balanced perspective in your analysis.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "unpredictable element" functions primarily as a noun phrase acting as a subject complement or object. It identifies something that is a source of uncertainty within a larger system or situation. Ludwig AI confirms its correct usage in diverse written contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Science

20%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Wiki

10%

Academia

5%

Reference

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "unpredictable element" is a grammatically sound and frequently used term to describe something that introduces uncertainty into a situation. As Ludwig AI confirms, its applicability spans across diverse fields such as news reporting, scientific research, and formal business communications. While alternatives like "random element" or "unforeseen element" exist, "unpredictable element" offers a broad and generally applicable way to characterize factors that defy accurate prediction. When using this phrase, be sure to clearly identify the element and provide context to illustrate its potential impact.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

unpredictable factor

Replaces "element" with "factor", offering a broader term for contributing aspects.

unanticipated element

Stresses the lack of prior expectation or foresight.

unforeseen element

Similar to unanticipated, but implies a greater degree of surprise.

unexpected element

Highlights the surprise or lack of anticipation.

random element

Focuses on the lack of pattern or predictability.

uncertain element

Emphasizes the lack of definite knowledge or prediction.

uncontrollable element

Indicates a lack of ability to manage or direct the element.

incalculable element

Highlights the impossibility of precise measurement or assessment.

volatile element

Emphasizes instability and potential for sudden change.

unstable element

Highlights the lack of equilibrium and reliability.

FAQs

How can I use "unpredictable element" in a sentence?

You can use "unpredictable element" to describe something that adds uncertainty or variability to a situation. For example: "The weather is an "unpredictable element" that can affect our plans".

What are some alternatives to "unpredictable element"?

Alternatives include "random element", "volatile element", or "unforeseen element", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is "unpredictable element" formal or informal?

"Unpredictable element" is suitable for both formal and informal contexts, but the surrounding language should match the desired tone.

How does an "unpredictable element" differ from a "risk factor"?

While both introduce uncertainty, an "unpredictable element" /s/uncertain+element is more general and may not always have negative consequences. A "risk factor" specifically implies a potential for harm or loss.