What is uncertain? Pronunciation and usage in English

uncertain means . Learn how to pronounce and use uncertain through vivid examples and easy-to-understand exercises.

Definition & pronunciation of uncertain

uncertainadjective

/ʌnˈsəːtn/
Definition & pronunciation of uncertain

Okay, let's break down how to pronounce "uncertain" in English. It can be tricky! Here's a breakdown and a few tips:

Here's the typical pronunciation:

  • /ˈʌnˌsɜːr.tən/

Let's break that down syllable by syllable:

  1. ˈʌn (The first syllable) - This sounds like "un" as in "under," followed by a short "uh" sound (like the "a" in "about"). It's a quick, light sound.

  2. ˌsɜːr (The second syllable) - This is the trickiest part.

    • sɜː - Make the "s" sound quickly, then say "ser" with a long "e" sound – almost like "sir" but a little more open. Think of the "e" in "bed."
    • tən - This is a schwa sound (ə) – a very relaxed, neutral vowel sound. It's like the "a" in "about" or the "i" in "so." It's not fully pronounced.

  3. ˈtən (The third syllable) – Same as above, a schwa sound (ə).

Putting it together:

It’s really fast! Imagine saying "un-ser-uh-ten" quickly, blending the sounds together.

Tips for Pronunciation:

  • Listen to examples: The best way to learn is to hear it. Here are a few resources:

    • Google Translate: Type "uncertain" into Google Translate, and click the speaker icon.
    • Forvo: https://forvo.com/word/uncertain/ – This website has pronunciations by native speakers.
    • YouTube: Search for “how to pronounce uncertain” and you’ll find many videos.

  • Focus on the schwa: The second and third syllables rely heavily on the schwa sound. Don’t try to over-emphasize those vowels.

  • Don't stress the 't': The 't' in "uncertain" is almost silent; it's not pronounced distinctly.

Would you like me to:

  • Repeat the pronunciation slowly?
  • Give you a more detailed breakdown of a specific part?

Usage and examples with the word uncertain in English

Let's break down how to use the word "uncertain" effectively in English. It’s a versatile word with several nuances, so understanding how it's used in different contexts is key.

1. Core Meaning: Lacking Certainty

At its most basic, "uncertain" means not sure or doubtful. It describes a state of lacking definite knowledge or confidence about something.

  • Example: "I’m uncertain about whether I should take this job." (I don't know for sure if it's the right choice.)
  • Example: "The weather forecast is uncertain." (The forecast isn't clear – it might rain, it might not.)

2. Forms of the Word:

  • Adjective: This is the most common form - uncertain (as we've been using). It describes nouns.

    • "He felt uncertain about the outcome."
    • "There was an uncertain atmosphere in the room."

  • Adverb: Uncertainly describes how something is done.

    • "She answered the question uncertainly." (Meaning she hesitated and didn't give a firm answer.)
    • "He walked uncertainly down the path." (Meaning he wasn't sure where he was going)

  • Verb (less common): To become uncertain means to start to doubt or lack confidence.

    • "After hearing the news, he became uncertain about his future."

3. Common Ways to Use "Uncertain" with Different Contexts:

  • With Decisions: (This is a very frequent use.)

    • "I’m uncertain about which university to attend."
    • "It's an uncertain decision with potential risks."

  • With Predictions/Forecasts: (As in the weather example above)

    • "The markets are highly uncertain at the moment."
    • "The economic outlook is uncertain."

  • With Feelings/Emotions:

    • "She felt uncertain after the argument." (She wasn't sure how he felt about her.)
    • "He expressed an uncertain hope about her return." (He wasn't completely sure she would come back.)

  • With Information:

    • "The information is uncertain and needs verification."
    • "There’s an uncertain element to the story." (A part of the story isn’t clear.)

  • Describing a Situation:

    • "The situation is uncertain; we need to proceed with caution."
    • "There’s an uncertain future for the company."

4. Synonyms for "Uncertain" (to expand your vocabulary):

  • Doubtful
  • Hesitant
  • Dubious
  • Questionable
  • Ambiguous
  • Vague
  • Unsure
  • Precarious (when it relates to a situation)

5. Phrases Using "Uncertain":

  • Uncertain of: "I'm uncertain of the exact date."
  • Uncertain about: "She's uncertain about her career path."
  • Remain uncertain: "Despite the evidence, the cause remains uncertain."

Example Sentences Demonstrating Different Uses:

  • "The future of the project is uncertain due to lack of funding." (Describes a situation)
  • "He answered the question uncertainly, avoiding a direct response." (Describes how he answered)
  • "I felt uncertain about trusting him." (Describes a feeling)
  • “The data is uncertain, so we need to perform more research.” (Describes information)

To help me give you even more targeted advice, could you tell me:

  • What kind of writing are you working on? (e.g., a formal essay, a conversation, creative writing?)
  • Can you give me an example sentence where you want to use “uncertain”? (So I can help you refine it.)

Synonyms for the word uncertain

Idioms of the word uncertain

in no uncertain terms
clearly and strongly
  • I told him what I thought of him in no uncertain terms.

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