uncertain

un|cer|tain [ ʌn`sɜrtn ] adjective **

1. ) not clearly known or understood:

The origin of the word is uncertain.

it is uncertain whether/why/how etc.: It is uncertain how they entered the property.

remain uncertain: Despite recent research, the precise mechanism of the virus remains uncertain.

a ) likely to change and become worse:

The economic outlook was beginning to look uncertain.

uncertain future: The industry as a whole faces a very uncertain future.

2. ) not feeling sure about what to do, whether something is true, etc.:

uncertain about/of: I left the meeting feeling anxious, and uncertain about what to do next.

uncertain what/why/how etc.: Greg was uncertain how to respond to this odd request.

a ) not confident:

Sara seemed more self-assured: no longer young and uncertain, but a confident professional woman.

in no uncertain terms

in a way that is clear and definite:

She was told in no uncertain terms that she would have to accept the deal.

╾ un|cer|tain|ly adverb