certain
Usage
What are other ways to say certain?
Certain, one of a handful of adjectives indicating full belief and trust that something is true, suggests that there are definite reasons that have freed one from doubt. Confident emphasizes the strength of the belief or the certainty of expectation felt. Positive implies emphatic certainty, which may even become overconfidence or dogmatism. Sure, the simplest and most general term, expresses mere absence of doubt.
Example Sentences
Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.
Ibuprofen may also provide benefits in certain areas, although the effects appeared less consistent.
From Science Daily • Jun. 10, 2026
Puts give investors the right to sell shares at a certain preset price and become more valuable as the underlying stock’s price decreases, so they are used by investors betting stocks will go down.
From The Wall Street Journal • Jun. 10, 2026
The destiny of the win in Montreal was far from certain when Russell retired.
From BBC • Jun. 9, 2026
He explains in the book that “. . . I could often advocate on behalf of arrangements or songs or decision making within songs based on the colors and shapes a certain passage evoked.”
From Salon • Jun. 9, 2026
It’s hard to feel certain Mom loves any of us given our current situation, but I force that thought aside.
From "South of Somewhere" by Kalena Miller
Vocabulary lists containing certain
The Real Deal: Synonyms for "True"
Looking to grow your vocabulary? Check out this interactive, curated word list from our team of English language specialists at Vocabulary.com – one of over 17,000 lists we've built to help learners worldwide!
List 1
Interested in learning more words like this one? Our team at Vocabulary.com has got you covered! You can review flashcards, quiz yourself, practice spelling, and more – and it's all completely free to use!
A Sure Thing: Synonyms for "Definite"
Want to remember this word for good? Start your learning journey today with our library of interactive, themed word lists built by the experts at Vocabulary.com – we'll help you make the most of your study time!
