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.
Call option buyers have the right, but not the obligation, to purchase underlying shares at a certain price in the future.
From Barron's • May 15, 2026
Securities regulators require all institutional investment managers holding more than $100 million in certain securities to disclose their positions in filings called 13Fs.
From MarketWatch • May 15, 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
But whether the Jam Tarts scamper over the line on Saturday, they can be certain that one group of Edinburgh residents won’t be joining the party.
From The Wall Street Journal • May 15, 2026
Like everybody can agree that certain things mean a person has succeeded.
From "Keeping Pace" by Laurie Morrison
![]()
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!