Uncertainly: meaning, definitions and examples

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uncertainly

[ʌnˈsɜrtəntli ]

Definitions

^{Context #1 | Adverb}

in a hesitant or unsure manner

in a way that shows a lack of confidence or certainty; without firm conviction

Synonyms

doubtfully, hesitantly, indecisively.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
uncertainly	Same as the first mention as it is a duplicate. She uncertainly stepped onto the ice, afraid she might slip
hesitantly	This word is used when someone is pausing or waiting before taking action, often due to caution or nervousness. She hesitantly reached out her hand to pet the unfamiliar dog
indecisively	Ideal for situations where a person is struggling to make a choice, often changing their mind multiple times. He walked indecisively between the two stores, unable to decide where to shop
doubtfully	This word suits situations where there is skepticism or disbelief about something. He stared at the broken clock doubtfully, wondering if it would ever work again

Examples of usage

She answered uncertainly, not sure if she was right or wrong.
He glanced uncertainly at the clock, wondering if he was late for the meeting.

^{Context #2 | Noun}

lack of confidence or certainty

the state of being unsure or hesitant; lack of conviction or confidence in one's actions or decisions

Synonyms

doubt, hesitation, indecision.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
uncertainly	Use when someone is unsure about what they are saying or doing, often showing a lack of confidence. "She spoke uncertainly, unsure if her answer was correct." "He looked uncertainly at the map, not knowing which way to go."
doubt	Use when expressing skepticism or a lack of belief in something. "I have serious doubts about the success of this plan." "He expressed doubt that the situation would improve."
indecision	Use when describing someone's inability to make a quick, clear decision. "Her indecision caused the project to be delayed by several weeks." "He stood at the crossroads in a state of indecision."
hesitation	Use when someone is pausing before doing something, showing they are wary or unsure about proceeding. "After a moment of hesitation, she agreed to try the new method." "His hesitation was noticeable before he answered the question."

Examples of usage

Her uncertainty about the future made her anxious.
The uncertainty of the situation left him feeling lost and confused.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

The word is formed by adding the suffix '-ly' to 'uncertain', which comes from the Latin word 'incertus', meaning 'not sure'.
The use of '-ly' transforms adjectives into adverbs, indicating how an action is performed.
The concept of uncertainty has been part of the English language since at least the 14th century, reflecting human experiences and emotions.

Psychology

Uncertainty can trigger anxiety, as it activates the brain's fear response when faced with unknown outcomes.
People often perceive situations uncertainly due to cognitive biases like overthinking or focusing on negative possibilities.
Studies show that embracing uncertainty can lead to better problem-solving skills and increased creativity.

Literature

Writers often explore themes of uncertainty to depict characters facing inner turmoil or complex dilemmas.
In Shakespeare's works, characters frequently express feelings uncertainly, reflecting the human condition and the unpredictability of life.
Modern narratives often use uncertain situations to create suspense, keeping readers guessing about what will happen next.

Pop Culture

Many popular songs capture the feeling of uncertainty, often depicting love, life, and future choices.
Movies like 'Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind' explore uncertain memories and relationships, adding to their emotional depth.
Reality television often thrives on uncertain outcomes, engaging viewers with unpredictable twists and turns.

Science

In quantum physics, uncertainty is a fundamental principle, stating that certain pairs of physical properties cannot be known precisely at the same time.
The uncertainty principle challenges traditional views of determinism, suggesting that not everything is predictable.
Data uncertainty in scientific experiments often affects results, leading researchers to account for variability and unknown factors.

Translations

Translations of the word "uncertainly" in other languages:

🇵🇹 incertamente

🇮🇳 अनिश्चितता से

🇩🇪 unsicher

🇮🇩 dengan ketidakpastian

🇺🇦 невпевнено

🇵🇱 niepewnie

🇯🇵 不確かに

🇫🇷 incertainement

🇪🇸 con incertidumbre

🇹🇷 belirsizlikle

🇰🇷 불확실하게

🇸🇦 بشكل غير مؤكد

🇨🇿 nejistě

🇸🇰 neisto

🇨🇳 不确定地

🇸🇮 negotovo

🇮🇸 óvissulega

🇰🇿 анық емес

🇬🇪 უცნობად

🇦🇿 qeyri-müəyyənliklə

🇲🇽 con incertidumbre

Word Frequency Rank

Positioned at #22,764, this word is part of extensive vocabulary. It's relatively rare in general usage but may be important in specific fields or formal writing.

...
22761 disparagement
22762 sturgeon
22763 prim
22764 uncertainly
22765 myopia
22766 potion
22767 intimating
...