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.
I’d imagine for all of you that you’re probably never quite sure what roles you do that are going to be the ones that hit in a certain way.
From Los Angeles Times • Jun. 9, 2026
"This is having a more focused or concentrated impact on local populations and the military in certain regions such as Crimea," he said.
From BBC • Jun. 8, 2026
The board said it had determined that certain personal conduct of Lockwood-Taylor wasn’t consistent with Perrigo’s code of conduct or core values.
From The Wall Street Journal • Jun. 8, 2026
The benefits were seen not only in patients with diabetes but also in those with non-diabetic CKD and certain forms of glomerular disease.
From Science Daily • Jun. 8, 2026
I’m almost certain there’s no air left in my body, so it’s impressive that I have yet to pass out.
From "Split the Sky" by Marie Arnold
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!
