were uncertain

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "were uncertain" is correct and can be used in written English.
It is used to indicate that something was not definite or known for sure. Example: "The weather forecast predicted rain, but as we stepped outside, we were uncertain if it would actually pour or just drizzle."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

56 human-written examples

They were uncertain, too.

The New York Times - Sports

But they were uncertain what it meant.

The New York Times - Health

These were uncertain times in North Dakota.

The New Yorker

Long-range economic prospects were uncertain.

The New York Times

Hours were uncertain and wages low.

The Guardian

Kennedy, La Guardia and Newark reopened, but schedules were uncertain.

The New York Times

Prior to independence in 1965, Singapore's economic prospects were uncertain.

The Guardian

Sixteen percent favored other candidates or said they were uncertain.

The New York Times

First responders were uncertain where to send burn victims.

The New York Times

But in the late 1970's, its prospects were uncertain.

The New York Times

Some were uncertain if it was a joke.

The New York Times - Magazine

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "were uncertain", ensure the context clearly indicates what the subject is uncertain about. For instance, specify the object, outcome, or decision they are unsure of.

Common error

Avoid using "were uncertain" without clarifying the specific area of uncertainty. Vague statements can lead to confusion; instead, specify what the subjects lacked clarity about.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "were uncertain" functions as a copular verb phrase, linking a subject to an adjective that describes its state. It indicates a state of doubt, lack of knowledge, or unpredictability, reflecting the subject's lack of clarity or confidence. Ludwig provides numerous examples demonstrating its usage.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

73%

Science

10%

Wiki

3%

Less common in

Formal & Business

2%

Reference

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "were uncertain" is a versatile phrase used to express a state of doubt, lack of knowledge, or unpredictability. As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase is grammatically correct and commonly used across a variety of contexts, particularly in news and media. When writing, ensure clarity by specifying the subject and scope of uncertainty to avoid ambiguity. Related phrases such as "were unsure" or "were doubtful" can provide nuanced alternatives. By following these guidelines, you can effectively use "were uncertain" to convey a lack of confidence or definitive knowledge.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

were unsure

Focuses on a feeling of doubt or lack of confidence.

were not sure

A more direct way of expressing a lack of certainty.

had doubts

Highlights the presence of questioning or skepticism.

were doubtful

Emphasizes the state of being inclined to doubt.

were unclear

Indicates a lack of clarity or understanding.

were vague

Suggests a lack of precision or detail.

were indefinite

Highlights that something was not clearly defined or determined.

lacked certainty

Emphasizes the absence of assuredness.

were in doubt

Indicates a state of uncertainty or ambiguity.

were hesitant

Highlights a pause or reluctance due to uncertainty.

FAQs

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

You can use "were uncertain" to describe a state of doubt or lack of knowledge about a specific topic. For example, "The researchers "were uncertain" about the long-term effects of the treatment".

What's a good alternative to "were uncertain"?

Alternatives to "were uncertain" include "were unsure", "were doubtful", or "were unclear", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it grammatically correct to say "was uncertain" instead of "were uncertain"?

The correct form depends on the subject. Use "was uncertain" with singular subjects (e.g., "He was uncertain"), and "were uncertain" with plural subjects (e.g., "They were uncertain").

What is the difference between "were uncertain" and "were unaware"?

"Were uncertain" implies a state of doubt or lack of confidence, while "were unaware" means lacking knowledge or consciousness of something. For instance, "They "were uncertain" about the outcome" suggests doubt, whereas "They "were unaware" of the risks" indicates a lack of knowledge.