What is certain? Pronunciation and usage in English

certain means . Learn how to pronounce and use certain through vivid examples and easy-to-understand exercises.

Definition & pronunciation of certain

certainadjective

/ˈsəːt(ɪ)n/
Definition & pronunciation of certain

Okay, let's break down how to pronounce "certain" in English. It's a tricky one for many learners! Here's a breakdown:

The most common and generally accepted pronunciation is:

  • ˈsɜːr.tən (British English)
    • ˈsɜːr: This is the first syllable. "Sɜːr" is pronounced like "sure" but with a slightly more drawn-out "er" sound. Think of it like "sure-uh."
    • tən: This is the second syllable. "tən" is pronounced like "tin," but with a shorter "i" sound.

Here's a phonetic breakdown using the International Phonetic Alphabet (IPA):

ˈsɜːr.tən

Tips for getting it right:

  • The "cer" sound: The first part, "cer," is often the most difficult. It's not like the "cert" in "certain certificate." It's closer to the "sure" sound.
  • Stress: The stress is on the first syllable ("sɜːr").
  • Short "i" in the second syllable: Don’t over-elongate the "tin" sound. It’s a short “i.”

Listen to examples:

  • Google Translate: Type "certain" into Google Translate and click the speaker icon to hear it pronounced.
  • Forvo: https://forvo.com/word/certain/ – This website lets you hear the word pronounced by native speakers from different regions.
  • YouTube: Search YouTube for "how to pronounce certain" – you'll find many videos demonstrating the correct pronunciation.

To help me give you even more targeted advice, could you tell me:

  • Where are you from? (e.g., United States, United Kingdom, Australia) Pronunciation can vary slightly between regions.

Usage and examples with the word certain in English

Let's break down how to use the word "certain" in English. It's a versatile word with several different nuances, so understanding how to use it correctly is key.

1. As an Adjective: Meaning "Definitely Sure"

This is the most common use of "certain." It means absolutely sure about something.

  • Example: “I’m certain that he will be here on time.” (I have no doubt; I’m completely sure.)
  • Example: “She was certain she had locked the door.” (She’s very sure about that action.)
  • Example: “He’s certain about his decision.” (He's made up his mind and feels confident.)

2. As an Adverb: Meaning "Definitely/Absolutely" (modifying a verb)

Here, "certain" modifies a verb, emphasizing the degree of certainty.

  • Example: “She answered certainly.” (She answered confidently and without hesitation.) – This suggests a higher level of agreement or acknowledgement than just "she answered."
  • Example: “He certainly knows the answer.” (He undoubtedly knows the answer.) – This implies a strong level of assurance.

3. “Be Certain” - An Imperative Phrase (Meaning "Make Sure")

When used as part of the phrase “be certain,” it means to make sure something happens or is done.

  • Example: “Be certain to bring an umbrella; it might rain.” (Make sure you bring an umbrella.)
  • Example: “Be certain to check your work before submitting it.” (Make sure you’ve thoroughly reviewed and corrected your work.)

4. "Certain About" - Expressing Confidence

Using “certain about” is a common way to express a strong feeling of confidence or conviction. It's often interchangeable with "sure about."

  • Example: “I’m certain about my choice of career.” (I’m very confident in my career decision.)
  • Example: “Are you certain about that deal?” (Are you completely confident this deal is good?)

Synonyms for "Certain"

Here are some words you can use as alternatives, depending on the shade of meaning you want to convey:

  • Sure: (Most common synonym) - “I'm sure he'll be there.”
  • Positive: - "I'm positive it's going to rain."
  • Confident: - "I'm confident in my abilities."
  • Assured: - "He was assured of success."
  • Definite: - "There's a definite answer."
  • Absolute: - “I’m absolutely certain."

Key Differences to Watch Out For:

  • "Certain" vs. "Maybe": “Certain” implies certainty, while "maybe" indicates uncertainty.
  • "Certain" vs. "Think": “Certain” is about knowing something is true, while “think” is about believing something might be true. ("I think it will rain" – less confident than “I’m certain it will rain.”)

To help me give you even more tailored advice, could you tell me:

  • What kind of context are you thinking about using “certain” in? (e.g., writing a formal email, casual conversation, describing a situation, etc.)
  • Could you provide an example sentence you're struggling with?

Synonyms for the word certain

Idioms of the word certain

for certain
without doubt
  • I can't say for certain when we'll arrive.
make certain (that…)
to find out whether something is definitely true
  • I think there's a bus at 8 but you'd better call to make certain.
  • Make certain that you lock the door if you go out.
make certain of something/of doing something
to do something in order to be sure that something else will happen
  • You'll have to leave soon to make certain of getting there on time.
of a certain age
if you talk about a person being of a certain age, you mean that they are no longer young but not yet old
  • The show appeals to an audience of a certain age.

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