Langimage
English

uncertainly

|un-cer-tain-ly|

B2

🇺🇸

/ʌnˈsɜːrtənli/

🇬🇧

/ʌnˈsɜːtənli/

(uncertain)

not sure

Base FormComparativeSuperlativeAdverb
uncertainmore uncertainmost uncertainuncertainly
Etymology
Etymology Information

'uncertainly' originates from Middle English, specifically the word 'uncertain,' where 'un-' meant 'not' and 'certain' meant 'sure.'

Historical Evolution

'uncertain' changed from the Old French word 'incertain' and eventually became the modern English word 'uncertain.'

Meaning Changes

Initially, it meant 'not sure or definite,' and this meaning has largely remained the same in modern usage.

Meanings by Part of Speech

Adverb 1

in a manner that is not sure or definite.

She spoke uncertainly about her plans for the future.

Synonyms

Antonyms

Last updated: 2025/01/11 11:35