01
unsicher
uncertain
Describing a state in which you have doubts or do not know exactly what to do or believe.
example
Ich bin unsicher, ob ich das Jobangebot annehmen soll.
I am uncertain whether I should accept the job offer.
unsicher
uncertain / insecure
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Meanings
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Usage tips
Word structure
The word is made up of the prefix 'un-' and the adjective 'sicher' (safe/secure/certain). The prefix 'un-' expresses the opposite. So 'unsicher' means 'not sicher' (not safe/secure/certain).
EXAMPLE
Ein sicherer Job ist ihm wichtiger als ein hohes Gehalt.
A secure job is more important to him than a high salary.
Context clue
Which meaning is intended depends on what is being described. If it refers to a decision, it means 'doubtful/uncertain'. If it describes a person, it means 'not self-confident'. If it refers to a place or object, it means 'dangerous' or 'unstable'.
EXAMPLE
Er ist unsicher, welchen Weg er nehmen soll.
He is uncertain which route he should take.
Sentence structure with doubt
When 'unsicher' (uncertain) expresses doubt, it is often followed by a subordinate clause with 'ob' (whether), 'was' (what), 'wie' (how), or an infinitive construction with 'zu' (to). This pattern shows what the uncertainty is about.
EXAMPLE
Sie ist unsicher, ob sie die richtige Entscheidung getroffen hat.
She is uncertain whether she made the right decision.
Fixed expression
The phrase 'etwas unsicher machen' means that someone or something is causing unrest or danger in a place. It is often used in connection with crime.
EXAMPLE
Eine Gruppe Jugendlicher machte nachts den Park unsicher.
A group of young people made the park unsafe at night.
Typical collocation
In connection with physical instability, the fixed expression 'unsicher auf den Beinen sein' (to be unsteady on one's feet) is very common. It describes a shaky gait.
EXAMPLE
Nach der langen Krankheit war der alte Mann noch sehr unsicher auf den Beinen.
After the long illness, the old man was still very unsteady on his feet.
Compare with
unsicher vs sicher
sure / safe
'sicher' and 'unsicher' are direct opposites, but the exact meaning depends on the context. With an opinion, 'sicher' means that you have no doubt, and 'unsicher' means that you are uncertain. With places, situations, or things, 'sicher' means that there is no danger, and 'unsicher' means that there is a risk or that something is not stable. Learners may confuse the words because both describe many everyday situations. Always ask yourself: Is it about knowledge, danger, or stability?
unsicher
Nach dem Unfall geht er noch etwas unsicher.
After the accident, he is still walking a bit unsteadily.
sicher
Bist du sicher, dass du die Tür abgeschlossen hast?
Are you sure you locked the door?
In real life
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