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
Whether or not concerns over artificial-intelligence disruption have been blown out of proportion, one thing is certain: The pressure on the industry shows no sign of abating.
From Barron's • Apr. 10, 2026
No two El Niño events are the same, but certain weather patterns are more or less likely when El Niño develops.
From BBC • Apr. 10, 2026
He seemed happy to answer my endless questions, chatting about everything from the various dynastic eras to the differences among vessel forms and the characteristics of certain hardwoods.
From "The Red Car to Hollywood" by Jennie Liu
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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