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.
Unless there is a court order, or the estate is part of a family trust that places certain restrictions on selling assets, you cannot stand in the way of these beneficiaries cashing out.
From MarketWatch • May 21, 2026
In that phase, a state judge will determine whether the company must change certain practices and features, such as age verification and other restrictions, or subject it to a child safety monitor.
From The Wall Street Journal • May 21, 2026
"Everyone is pulling in their own direction, responding to certain interests and certain groups," according to Daniela Osorio-Michel, a political scientist at the German Institute for Global and Area Studies.
From Barron's • May 21, 2026
One of them was writing a screenplay with AI, and told me they got certain rules on AI.
From Los Angeles Times • May 21, 2026
The one thing it tells me for certain is that she’s hiding in the Maldives, so I start there.
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!