A2adjective1K

Certain

UK /["/ˈsɜːtn/"]/US /["/ˈsɜːrtn/"]/

Definition

strongly believing something; having no doubts

In simple words: sure, without any doubt

Examples

  • I am certain that I locked the door before leaving.
  • There are certain rules we must follow in the classroom.
  • She was certain he would come to the party.
  • Certain people have different opinions about the project.
  • I'm not certain if I can make it to the meeting tomorrow.

Usage notes

Use 'certain' when you want to express confidence in something. It's appropriate in both spoken and written English, but avoid it in very formal contexts where 'specific' or 'determined' may be better.

Grammar pattern

standalone adjective

Memory hint

Think of 'certain' as being 'certain' you can win a game; you have no doubts.

Collocations

  • be
  • feel
  • look
  • very
  • absolutely
  • quite
  • about
  • of
  • can’t say for certain
  • not know for certain
  • be
  • feel
  • look
  • very
  • absolutely
  • quite
  • about
  • of
  • can’t say for certain
  • not know for certain

Synonyms

  • sure
  • positive
  • definite
  • assured
  • clear

Antonyms

  • uncertain
  • doubtful
  • indefinite

Common mistakes

  • Confused with 'sure' in different contexts.
  • Using 'certain' without clarifying what is certain about.
  • Incorrectly using 'certain' to describe someone as a person (should be used for objects or ideas).