- Certain (as used in American English) conveys several core senses:
- Fixed, settled, or determined.
- Sure to happen or inevitable.
- Not to be doubted; unquestionable.
- Not failing; reliable or steady.
- These senses cover confidence about outcomes, inevitability, and reliability in different contexts.
- Usage notes:
- Can express certainty about a fact or outcome.
- May imply confidence without absolute guarantees in all situations.
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Collins Dictionary — 2025-12-01