we were uncertain

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "we were uncertain" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to express doubt or lack of confidence about a situation or outcome. Example: "During the meeting, we were uncertain about the project's timeline and needed more information before proceeding."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

58 human-written examples

We were uncertain that they wanted to be together.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

When we started the rehearsal process, we were uncertain about how the piece would form itself.

The Guardian

We were uncertain of how much the old beauty might have been tempered with in the dread name of improvement.

The New Yorker

It would undercome many revisions down the road, but at the time, we were uncertain of whether the hardware was working at all.

Cornell University

Director of World Cancer Research Fund UK, Amanda McLean, said: "Until now we were uncertain about the amount of alcohol likely to lead to liver cancer.

Independent

However, we were uncertain whether AM-like cells were localized in the lung interstitium or on the endothelial wall, in contact with the vascular lumen as described for PIM.

Nature

Last year, we were uncertain exactly how the rock sequence fit with the sequence near Nova Iorque, and I would be quite interested to see how Roger's framework holds up there.

The New York Times

A few people nominated "the f-word," though we were uncertain if they meant the word "fuck" (unacceptable: you need it if you stub a toe, not to mention for other anatomical purposes) or the euphemism (in which case we're O.K. with ditching it: we prefer "eff").

The New Yorker

But six months ago, we were uncertain what YouTube would be able to achieve.

Forbes

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

2 human-written examples

When we are uncertain, we are inclined to make assumptions.

Harvard Business Review

"We are uncertain for whom it is designated".

The New York Times - Magazine

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "we were uncertain", ensure the context clearly indicates what the uncertainty pertains to. Providing specific details enhances clarity and avoids ambiguity.

Common error

Avoid using "we were uncertain" without specifying the subject of uncertainty. For instance, instead of saying "we were uncertain", clarify with "we were uncertain about the project's feasibility" to provide better context and prevent misinterpretation.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "we were uncertain" functions as a statement expressing a state of doubt or lack of definitive knowledge. This is confirmed by Ludwig AI, which validates its correct usage. The phrase commonly introduces a clause explaining the subject of uncertainty.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

33%

News & Media

31%

Academia

4%

Less common in

Formal & Business

2%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "we were uncertain" is a grammatically sound and frequently used phrase to express doubt or lack of confidence. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's versatile across different contexts, especially in science and news. While alternatives like "we were unsure" exist, clarity is key when using the phrase, specifying what the uncertainty refers to. Avoiding vague references will ensure effective communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

we were unsure

This alternative is a direct synonym, conveying the same sense of lacking certainty.

we were not sure

This alternative is a more explicit and straightforward way of expressing uncertainty.

we were doubtful

This alternative emphasizes a feeling of disbelief or skepticism.

we had doubts

This alternative focuses on the presence of questioning thoughts or reservations.

we lacked confidence

This alternative highlights the absence of self-assurance in a particular situation.

we were hesitant

This alternative suggests a reluctance or unwillingness due to uncertainty.

we were unconvinced

This alternative indicates that available evidence or arguments failed to persuade.

we felt apprehensive

This alternative conveys a sense of anxiety or unease about a future event.

we had reservations

This alternative expresses unspoken doubts or concerns about something.

we were in two minds

This alternative idiom suggests being undecided or wavering between options.

FAQs

How can I use "we were uncertain" in a sentence?

You can use "we were uncertain" to express doubt or lack of confidence about a specific situation or outcome. For example, "We were uncertain about the new policy's effectiveness" or "We were uncertain whether the experiment would yield positive results".

What are some alternatives to "we were uncertain"?

Alternatives include phrases like "we were unsure", "we were doubtful", or "we were not sure", which convey a similar meaning depending on the context.

Is it better to use "we were uncertain" or "we were unsure"?

Both "we were uncertain" and "we were unsure" are grammatically correct and convey a similar meaning. The choice between them often depends on personal preference and the specific context of the sentence.

What's the difference between "we were uncertain" and "we were hesitant"?

"We were uncertain" indicates a lack of clarity or confidence about something, while "we were hesitant" suggests a reluctance or unwillingness to act due to doubt or uncertainty. The latter implies a stronger emotional component.