Definition

The state of being unsure or having doubts about something.

Example

There is a lot of uncertainty about the weather this weekend.

Conversation

I've been feeling a lot of uncertainty about my job lately.

I can understand that; the job market is really unpredictable right now.

Yeah, it's tough to make plans when there's so much uncertainty around.

Just take it one step at a time, and try not to stress too much.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Uncertainty → It is formed from "un-" (meaning not) and "certus" (from Latin, meaning sure or certain) and the suffix "-ainty" (derived from the Latin suffix "-antia", indicating a state or quality). The word "uncertainty" means the state of being not sure or lacking certainty.

Memory Tip

Think of 'not' ('un-') being combined with 'sure' ('certus') to remember that uncertainty means the state of not being sure.

Visually Confused Words