certain

[ˈsərt(ə)n]

certain Definition

• 1. known for sure; established beyond doubt
• 2. particular but not named or specified
• 3. having complete confidence in; sure

Using certain: Examples

Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "certain" can be used in various situations through the following examples!

• Example

  I am certain that I locked the door before leaving.

• Example

  He has a certain charm that makes him popular.

• Example

  She was certain of her decision to quit her job.

• Example

  The book is about a certain man who travels the world.

certain Synonyms and Antonyms

Synonyms for certain

• sure
• confident
• positive
• definite
• assured

Antonyms for certain

• uncertain
• doubtful
• unsure

Phrases with certain

• a certain amount/number

  an unspecified but definite amount or number

  Example

  You need to add a certain amount of salt to the recipe.

• for certain

  without doubt; definitely

  Example

  I know for certain that she will be there.

• to a certain extent

  partially; to some degree

  Example

  I agree with you to a certain extent, but I still have some reservations.

Origins of certain

from Old French 'certein', from Latin 'certus', meaning 'sure, fixed'

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Summary: certain in Brief

The term 'certain' [ˈsərt(ə)n] denotes knowledge that is established beyond doubt, as in 'I am certain that I locked the door before leaving.' It can also refer to something particular but not named, as in 'The book is about a certain man who travels the world.' 'Certain' extends into phrases like 'for certain,' indicating certainty without doubt, and 'to a certain extent,' implying partial agreement.