What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
tentativeness
Example
She spoke with tentativeness, unsure of how her words would be received. [tentativeness: noun]
Example
He approached the new task with tentativeness, not wanting to make any mistakes. [tentative: adjective]
uncertainty
Example
There is a great deal of uncertainty surrounding the outcome of the election. [uncertainty: noun]
Example
She felt a sense of uncertainty about her future career path. [uncertain: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Uncertainty is more commonly used than tentativeness in everyday language. Uncertainty is a versatile word that can be used to describe a wide range of situations and emotions, while tentativeness is a more specific term that is less commonly used.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between tentativeness and uncertainty?
Both tentativeness and uncertainty can be used in formal and informal contexts, and neither word is particularly more formal than the other.
