know for certain

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.

Given the lack of any count over time, it’s impossible to know for certain how agents’ current use of the banned and dangerous tactics compares with earlier periods.

From Salon • Jan. 14, 2026

But the plaintiffs had doctors testify that they could not know for certain whether an infant with these defects would live for days, weeks, or maybe even a few months before suffering a painful death.

From Slate • Jan. 10, 2026

We can’t know for certain if the Values Bridge data reveals a slow trend away from the centrality of family in the American psyche or a sudden drop, or why in either case.

From The Wall Street Journal • Nov. 20, 2025

Rev Paul Fillery said it was likely caused by rain gradually eroding the soil and foundations, but the church would not know for certain until a survey was completed.

From BBC • Nov. 9, 2025

“I don’t have to choose, do I? That’s the whole point. I don’t have to know for certain one way or the other if—” “Nobody knows, Ishmael. What do you believe?”

From "Snow Falling on Cedars: A Novel" by David Guterson