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've always found the surname has brought a certain level of shame, embarrassment and guilt.
From BBC • Apr. 18, 2026
Someone who is certain that the experts are wrong.
From Slate • Apr. 18, 2026
You can also talk about how certain bets, like a parlay that combines more than one wager, may sound more lucrative but also increases the likelihood of losing.
From MarketWatch • Apr. 17, 2026
In a wide-ranging interview with architecture critic Sam Lubell, Peter Zumthor talks about the evolution of LACMA’s new David Geffen Galleries, how L.A. changed his practice, and why certain criticisms of the building are overblown.
From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 17, 2026
She would not know, for certain, which realm had met him with an open door.
From "The Undead Fox of Deadwood Forest" by Aubrey Hartman
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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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