Certain Meaning and Definition
Certain
Pronunciation
/ˈsɛərənt/
Part of Speech
Noun and Adjective
Definition
A thing that is determined or decided, without any doubt or uncertainty.
Examples
- Her decision was a certain consequence of her actions.
- The result was a certain victory for the team.
Synonyms
- Definite
- Guaranteed
Antonyms
- Uncertain
- Unlikely
Etymology
The word “Certain” comes from the Old French word “certain”, meaning “fixed” or “decided”, and is derived from the Latin word “certus”, meaning “fixed” or “secure”.
Usage Notes
Certain can be used to describe a situation or outcome that has been determined or decided, without any doubt or uncertainty. For example: “The outcome of the game was certain, with our team leading by a wide margin.”
Cultural References
Certain has appeared in various cultural references, such as in literature, music, and film. For example, the phrase “a certain someone” is often used to describe a character or individual who is well-known or iconic.
Idiomatic Expressions or Phrases
- a certain someone
- a certain way
- it’s a certain fact
Related Words or Phrases
- Sure
- Certainly
- Definite
Collocations
- a certain outcome
- a certain fact
- a certain reason
Frequency of Use
Certain is a relatively common word, especially in formal writing and speech. It is often used to emphasize the certainty or definiteness of a statement or situation.
Common Misspellings
- Serene
- Surance