What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
uncertainty
Example
There is a lot of uncertainty about the future of the company. [uncertainty: noun]
Example
I am uncertain about whether I should take this job offer. [uncertain: adjective]
vagueness
Example
The instructions were vague and hard to follow. [vague: adjective]
Example
The details of the plan were shrouded in vagueness. [vagueness: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Uncertainty is more commonly used than vagueness in formal or technical contexts, while vagueness is more commonly used in everyday language.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between uncertainty and vagueness?
Uncertainty is more formal than vagueness, which is more casual and informal in tone.
