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 adventurous nature of such sailings and the activities they provide can be riskier than a more traditional cruise and a barrier for people with certain physical limitations.
From The Wall Street Journal • May 17, 2026
The poem survives today because it was copied into certain manuscripts of Ecclesiastical History of the English People, an 8th century history written in Latin by the English monk Bede.
From Science Daily • May 17, 2026
The insurers had alleged that they were shielded from antitrust liability under both California and federal law due to a certain legal doctrine.
From Los Angeles Times • May 16, 2026
"But once he'd made it, he was certain it was right and honourable. It was done with a heavy heart but with total conviction."
From BBC • May 15, 2026
She interrupts me a lot, sometimes asking me to repeat something I said, and sometimes it’s with another question aimed at clarifying how and why certain things happened.
From "Red Flags and Butterflies" by Sheryl Azzam
![]()
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!