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.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention states that consuming raw milk “can lead to serious health risks, especially for certain vulnerable populations,” and encourages people to choose pasteurized dairy products.
From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 11, 2026
Also known as erythrosine, the synthetic, petroleum-based dye gives certain foods, like candies and frozen desserts, a bright, cherry-red hue.
From Salon • Apr. 11, 2026
Other groups also later became eligible for the programme, including certain sixth form students attending a school or college where there had been a confirmed or probable case.
From BBC • Apr. 11, 2026
"If certain theories of dark matter are true, we should see it in every galaxy, for example in every dwarf galaxy," explains Krnjaic.
From Science Daily • Apr. 10, 2026
As he’d scavenged, Clare had reverted to walking on all fours, for at certain times, it made sense to keep his nose close to the ground.
From "The Undead Fox of Deadwood Forest" by Aubrey Hartman
Vocabulary lists containing certain
The Real Deal: Synonyms for "True"
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List 1
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A Sure Thing: Synonyms for "Definite"
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