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
In the email, Healthdaq said it became aware of unauthorised access to certain data held within its platform on 30 March.
From BBC • Apr. 10, 2026
Researchers led by Flinders University, working with international collaborators, have uncovered how a rare blood clotting condition can develop after certain COVID19 adenovirus-based vaccines or even after a natural adenovirus infection.
From Science Daily • Apr. 10, 2026
Duane was fairly certain it was the sunlight hitting C.C.’s metal telescope atop the slanted deck.
From "The Very, Very Far North" by Dan Bar-el
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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