Top 35 Slang For Uncertainty – Meaning & Usage

Feeling unsure about the latest slang trends? You’re not alone! Navigating the ever-changing landscape of language can be daunting, but fear not. Our team at Fluentslang has got you covered with a curated list of slang for uncertainty that will have you feeling confident in your linguistic skills. Stay ahead of the curve and dive into this article to brush up on your knowledge of the latest expressions for those moments when you’re just not quite sure.

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1. Up in the air

This phrase is used to describe a situation or decision that is still undecided or uncertain. It suggests that the outcome is not yet determined or known.

For example, “The date for the meeting is still up in the air.”
A person might say, “I’m not sure if I’ll be able to make it to the party, so my attendance is up in the air.”
In a discussion about future plans, someone might say, “We’re still up in the air about where to go on vacation.”

2. On the fence

This phrase is used to describe someone who is undecided or unsure about a particular issue or decision. It suggests that the person is hesitant to take a definite stance.

For instance, “I’m on the fence about whether to accept the job offer.”
A person might say, “I’m still on the fence about which candidate to vote for in the election.”
In a discussion about a controversial topic, someone might say, “I’m on the fence about whether or not to support the new policy.”

3. Playing it by ear

This phrase is used to describe a situation where someone is making decisions or plans as they go along, without a predetermined or fixed plan. It suggests a flexible and adaptable approach.

For example, “We don’t have a set itinerary for our road trip, we’re just playing it by ear.”
A person might say, “I’m not sure what time I’ll be able to meet up, so let’s play it by ear.”
In a discussion about a project, someone might say, “We’ll see how things progress and play it by ear.”

4. Your guess is as good as mine

This phrase is used to express uncertainty or a lack of knowledge about a particular topic or question. It suggests that the person has no more information or insight than the person asking the question.

For instance, “What time will the event start?” “Your guess is as good as mine.”
A person might say, “I have no idea who will win the game. Your guess is as good as mine.”
In a discussion about a complex problem, someone might say, “How to solve this issue? Your guess is as good as mine.”

5. Touch and go

This phrase is used to describe a situation that is uncertain, risky, or unpredictable. It suggests that the outcome is not guaranteed and could go either way.

For example, “The success of the project is touch and go at this point.”
A person might say, “The weather conditions make the flight touch and go.”
In a discussion about a medical condition, someone might say, “The patient’s recovery is touch and go right now.”

6. In a state of flux

This phrase is used to describe a situation or condition that is constantly changing or in a state of uncertainty.

For example, “The company’s future is in a state of flux as they navigate through a major reorganization.”
A person might say, “My plans for the weekend are still in a state of flux, I can’t decide what to do.”
In a discussion about a political situation, someone might comment, “The country is in a state of flux as they transition to a new government.”

7. In a state of indecision

This phrase is used to describe a state of uncertainty or hesitation when someone is unable to make a decision.

For instance, “She’s been in a state of indecision about which college to attend.”
A person might say, “I’m in a state of indecision about whether to accept the job offer or not.”
In a group discussion about vacation plans, someone might admit, “I’m in a state of indecision about where to go this year.”

8. In a state of doubt

This phrase is used to describe a state of uncertainty or skepticism about something.

For example, “He’s in a state of doubt about whether he can trust his new coworker.”
A person might say, “I’m in a state of doubt about the accuracy of that news article.”
In a conversation about a controversial topic, someone might express, “I’m in a state of doubt about the validity of those claims.”

9. In a state of hesitation

This phrase is used to describe a state of uncertainty or reluctance to take action.

For instance, “She’s in a state of hesitation about whether to accept the promotion.”
A person might say, “I’m in a state of hesitation about whether to invest in that business.”
In a discussion about trying a new activity, someone might admit, “I’m in a state of hesitation about whether to give it a try.”

10. In a state of suspense

This phrase is used to describe a state of uncertainty or anxiety about something that is yet to be resolved or revealed.

For example, “The audience was in a state of suspense as they waited for the winner to be announced.”
A person might say, “I’m in a state of suspense about the results of my job interview.”
In a discussion about a cliffhanger in a TV show, someone might comment, “The season finale left us in a state of suspense, eagerly awaiting the next episode.”

11. In a state of unpredictableness

This phrase describes a situation or state of being where the outcome or future is unclear and cannot be easily predicted.

For example, “The stock market is in a state of unpredictableness right now, making it difficult to make investment decisions.”
Someone might say, “My relationship is in a state of unpredictableness. I’m not sure where it’s headed.”
In a discussion about the weather, someone might comment, “The forecast shows a state of unpredictableness with potential rain showers.”

12. In a state of unsureness

This phrase describes a state of not being confident or certain about something.

For instance, “I’m in a state of unsureness about which college to attend.”
A person might say, “I’m in a state of unsureness about my career path. I’m considering different options.”
In a conversation about making a decision, someone might comment, “I’m in a state of unsureness. I can’t decide between the two options.”

13. In a state of hesitancy

This phrase describes a state of being hesitant or indecisive, often due to uncertainty or lack of confidence.

For example, “She’s in a state of hesitancy about accepting the job offer.”
A person might say, “I’m in a state of hesitancy when it comes to public speaking. I feel nervous.”
In a discussion about taking risks, someone might comment, “I’m in a state of hesitancy. I’m not sure if it’s worth the potential consequences.”

14. In a state of tentativeness

This phrase describes a state of being tentative or uncertain, often characterized by hesitation or caution.

For instance, “The team is in a state of tentativeness after their recent loss.”
Someone might say, “I’m in a state of tentativeness about starting a new project. I’m not sure if I have enough experience.”
In a conversation about making plans, a person might comment, “I’m in a state of tentativeness. Let’s wait and see how things unfold.”

15. In a state of wavering

This phrase describes a state of indecision or uncertainty, often characterized by fluctuating thoughts or opinions.

For example, “She’s in a state of wavering between two career paths.”
A person might say, “I’m in a state of wavering about whether to go on the trip. I can’t make up my mind.”
In a discussion about making a purchase, someone might comment, “I’m in a state of wavering. I’m not sure if it’s worth the price.”

16. In a state of vacillation

When someone is in a state of vacillation, they are unable to make a decision or choose between different options. It refers to a state of indecisiveness or uncertainty.

For example, “She was in a state of vacillation about which college to attend.”
A person might say, “I’m vacillating between ordering pizza or sushi for dinner.”
In a group discussion, someone might comment, “We need to make a decision soon, we can’t remain in a state of vacillation forever.”

17. In a state of ambivalence

When someone is in a state of ambivalence, they have mixed feelings or conflicting emotions about a particular situation. It refers to a state of uncertainty or indecisiveness.

For instance, “He was in a state of ambivalence about whether to accept the job offer.”
A person might say, “I have ambivalence about attending the party, I’m not sure if I’ll enjoy it.”
In a discussion about a controversial topic, someone might express, “I feel ambivalence about the issue, as there are valid arguments on both sides.”

18. In a state of irresolution

When someone is in a state of irresolution, they are undecided or unable to reach a decision. It refers to a state of uncertainty or indecisiveness.

For example, “She was in a state of irresolution regarding which career path to choose.”
A person might say, “I’m in a state of irresolution about whether to buy a new car or continue using my current one.”
In a team meeting, someone might express, “We can’t move forward until we resolve this issue, we can’t remain in a state of irresolution.”

19. In a state of inconclusiveness

When something is in a state of inconclusiveness, it means that the outcome or result is unclear or uncertain. It refers to a situation where no definite conclusion can be reached.

For instance, “The investigation was in a state of inconclusiveness, as there was insufficient evidence.”
A person might say, “The data analysis yielded inconclusiveness, we need to conduct further experiments.”
In a debate, someone might argue, “The evidence presented so far leads to inconclusiveness, we need more information to reach a definitive conclusion.”

20. In a state of dubiety

When someone is in a state of dubiety, they are doubtful or uncertain about something. It refers to a state of doubt or skepticism.

For example, “He was in a state of dubiety about the accuracy of the information.”
A person might say, “I’m in a state of dubiety about the reliability of this product.”
In a discussion about a controversial claim, someone might express, “There is dubiety regarding the validity of the statement, more research is needed.”

21. In a muddle

When someone is in a muddle, they are feeling confused or disorganized. It can also refer to a situation that is chaotic or unclear.

For example, “I’m in a muddle trying to figure out this math problem.”
Someone might say, “The office is in a muddle after the sudden change in management.”
A person might describe a messy room as “a muddle of clothes and clutter.”

22. In a haze

When someone is in a haze, they are in a state of confusion or uncertainty. It can also refer to feeling mentally foggy or unclear.

For instance, “I’m in a haze after staying up all night studying.”
A person might say, “I woke up in a haze and couldn’t remember what day it was.”
Someone might describe their thoughts as “lost in a haze of doubt.”

23. Jury’s still out

When the jury’s still out, it means that the final decision or conclusion is still unknown. It is often used to express uncertainty or to indicate that more information or time is needed.

For example, “The jury’s still out on whether the new treatment is effective.”
Someone might say, “The jury’s still out on who will win the election.”
A person might use this phrase to indicate that they are undecided, saying, “I haven’t made up my mind yet, the jury’s still out.”

24. On shaky ground

When someone is on shaky ground, they are in an uncertain or unstable position. It can also refer to a situation that is risky or not well-founded.

For instance, “Their relationship is on shaky ground after the recent argument.”
A person might say, “The company’s financial situation is on shaky ground.”
Someone might describe a plan as “built on shaky ground” if it is not well thought out or lacks solid evidence.

25. In a state of vagueness

When someone is in a state of vagueness, they are unclear or lacking in detail. It can also refer to a situation that is uncertain or not well-defined.

For example, “I’m in a state of vagueness about what to do next.”
A person might say, “The instructions were written in a state of vagueness, making it difficult to follow.”
Someone might describe a conversation as “filled with vagueness” if the participants are not being specific or clear.

26. In a state of befuddlement

This phrase describes a state of being confused or perplexed, often due to a lack of understanding or clarity.

For example, “After reading the complex instructions, I was in a state of befuddlement.”
A person might say, “I’m in a state of befuddlement trying to figure out this math problem.”
Another might express their confusion by saying, “The sudden change in plans left me in a state of befuddlement.”

27. In a state of muddle

This phrase describes a state of being confused or disorganized, often resulting in a lack of clarity or efficiency.

For instance, “The cluttered workspace left me in a state of muddle.”
A person might say, “I’m in a state of muddle trying to prioritize my tasks.”
Another might express their disorganization by saying, “The chaotic schedule has put me in a state of muddle.”

28. In a state of disarray

This phrase describes a state of being in disorder or chaos, often resulting in a lack of organization or structure.

For example, “The room was in a state of disarray after the party.”
A person might say, “My thoughts are in a state of disarray right now.”
Another might describe a messy situation by saying, “The project is in a state of disarray due to miscommunication.”

29. In a state of chaos

This phrase describes a state of being in extreme confusion or disorder, often resulting in a lack of control or predictability.

For instance, “The protest turned into a state of chaos.”
A person might say, “My life feels like it’s in a state of chaos right now.”
Another might describe a hectic situation by saying, “The office was in a state of chaos during the busy season.”

30. In a state of disorder

This phrase describes a state of being in a lack of order or organization, often resulting in confusion or inefficiency.

For example, “The files were in a state of disorder, making it difficult to find important documents.”
A person might say, “My thoughts are in a state of disorder and I can’t focus.”
Another might describe a messy room by saying, “The bedroom is in a state of disorder and needs to be cleaned.”

31. In a state of disorganization

Refers to a situation or environment that lacks order or organization. It suggests a sense of confusion or chaos.

For example, “The office was in a state of disorganization after the move.”
A person describing a messy room might say, “My bedroom is in a state of disorganization.”
In a discussion about a poorly managed project, someone might comment, “The team’s lack of coordination resulted in a state of disorganization.”

32. In a state of turmoil

Describes a situation or period of time characterized by intense or chaotic activity, often accompanied by emotional or physical unrest.

For instance, “The country was in a state of turmoil during the revolution.”
A person going through a difficult breakup might say, “My emotions are in a state of turmoil right now.”
In a discussion about a company facing financial difficulties, someone might comment, “The organization is in a state of turmoil as they try to navigate the crisis.”

33. In a state of tumult

Refers to a situation or atmosphere characterized by a loud, confused noise or disturbance. It suggests a state of chaos or disorder.

For example, “The concert was in a state of tumult as fans screamed and cheered.”
A person describing a crowded market might say, “The marketplace was in a state of tumult.”
In a discussion about a heated argument, someone might comment, “The conversation quickly descended into a state of tumult.”

34. In a state of disorderliness

Describes a situation or environment that lacks order, neatness, or organization. It implies a sense of chaos or untidiness.

For instance, “The children’s playroom was in a state of disorderliness with toys scattered everywhere.”
A person describing a cluttered desk might say, “My workspace is in a state of disorderliness.”
In a discussion about a disorganized event, someone might comment, “The party was in a state of disorderliness with no clear plan or schedule.”

35. In a state of pandemonium

Refers to a situation or environment characterized by extreme chaos, noise, or confusion. It suggests a state of uproar or disorder.

For example, “The stadium erupted into a state of pandemonium when the home team scored the winning goal.”
A person describing a crowded concert might say, “The venue was in a state of pandemonium with fans pushing and shouting.”
In a discussion about a chaotic protest, someone might comment, “The demonstration quickly devolved into a state of pandemonium.”