What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
some
Example
Can I have some water, please? [some: determiner]
Example
Some of the students in the class are from different countries. [some: pronoun]
certain
Example
I saw a certain man walking down the street. [certain: adjective]
Example
It's certain that the sun will rise tomorrow. [certain: determiner]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Some is more common than certain in everyday language, as it is a versatile word that can be used in various contexts. Certain is less common but has a more formal and precise connotation.
Whatโs the difference in the tone of formality between some and certain?
Certain is more formal than some and is often used in academic or legal contexts to convey a high level of precision and certainty. Some, on the other hand, is more informal and can be used in both formal and informal contexts.
