What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
certainty
Example
I can say with certainty that the sun will rise tomorrow. [certainty: noun]
Example
She spoke with certainty, knowing that she had prepared well for the presentation. [certainty: noun]
confidence
Example
He approached the interview with confidence, knowing that he had the necessary skills. [confidence: noun]
Example
She confidently answered the question, displaying her knowledge on the subject. [confidently: adverb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Confidence is more commonly used than certainty in everyday language. Confidence is a versatile word that can be applied in various contexts, such as personal development, social interactions, or professional settings. On the other hand, certainty is less common and is typically used in situations where there is no room for doubt or uncertainty.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between certainty and confidence?
Both certainty and confidence can be used in both formal and informal contexts. However, certainty is often associated with more formal or technical language, especially when discussing facts or evidence, while confidence can be used in a wider range of formality levels, allowing it to be employed in both casual and formal situations.
