certain
Adjective
Easy difficulty
What does “certain” mean?
adjective.able to be relied on to happen or be the case.
SAT Usage
The term often appears in contexts related to decision-making, certainty in scientific claims, or historical analysis. It emphasizes reliability and assurance in outcomes or beliefs, distinguishing it from words like "possible," which suggests uncertainty or variability.
Common Confusions
Certain implies a firm assurance or reliability in outcomes, while possible usually suggests a mere likelihood without guarantee or certainty.
Do not choose certain if the context emphasizes doubt or uncertainty rather than being relied on to happen or be the case.
Example Sentences
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I was certain of my decision.
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Bankruptcy is the certain outcome of your constant gambling and lending.
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There were serious objections to certain of the proposals.