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.
These larger operations often relied on built infrastructure and occupied certain locations for longer periods.
From Science Daily • Jun. 11, 2026
And intensifying competition means we will increasingly be in “an investing landscape where certain segments of the economy and markets are starved for capital, while others are flush with attractive financing options.”
From Barron's • Jun. 10, 2026
The film can hardly avoid being described as “Close Encounters of the Third Kind” meets “Enemy of the State,” and that such comparisons are so obvious bespeaks a certain lack of originality.
From The Wall Street Journal • Jun. 10, 2026
When questioned about other visa issues, which have affected fans and team delegates too, Infantino deflected attention to the 2035 Women's World Cup - which is almost certain to be awarded to the United Kingdom.
From BBC • Jun. 10, 2026
Then, when I’m certain Dad is facing away, I slide my hand into the pillowcase and remove the postcards.
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!
