unsure
11 synonyms and 1 antonym for unsure, grouped by meaning and by how common each one is.
Adj — Not certain or confident about something.
Synonyms
Less common
Still standard English, but they carry more weight.
Rare, literary or technical
Precise, but they will stand out — check the sense before using one.
Antonyms
How to use unsure
The word patterns that sound natural to a native speaker.
unsure of yourself
unsure whether
feel unsure
Etymology
From Middle English unsure, equivalent to un- + sure. Piecewise doublet of insecure and unsecure.
Full origin of unsure →Frequently asked questions
What does “unsure” mean?
The word “unsure” means not certain or confident about something. In plain terms, not certain — lacking confidence or clarity about something.
How do you use “unsure” in a sentence?
Here is “unsure” used in a sentence: “I'm unsure whether we should reschedule the meeting.”
What is another word for “unsure”?
Words with a similar meaning to “unsure” include agnostic.
What part of speech is “unsure”?
“Unsure” is an adjective.
Is “unsure” a common word?
“Unsure” is an uncommon word in modern English, usually learned at around the B2 level.
What is the difference between "unsure" and "uncertain"?
Both describe a lack of certainty or confidence about something, and they are largely interchangeable. "Unsure" tends to sound slightly more informal and personal, often describing how someone feels, while "uncertain" can also describe situations, facts, or outcomes in more formal writing.
Is "unsure" informal compared to "agnostic" or "uncertain"?
"Unsure" is a common, everyday word suitable for both spoken and written English, whereas "agnostic" is more specialized, often implying a deliberate refusal to commit to a position rather than simple lack of confidence. "Unsure" is the more natural choice for everyday doubt.
What preposition typically follows "unsure"?
"Unsure" is usually followed by "about" or "of," as in "unsure about the plan" or "unsure of the answer." It can also be followed by a clause beginning with "whether" or "if."
