CERTAINTY Synonyms: 52 Similar and Opposite Words

Q: How does the noun 'certainty' differ from other similar words?

The words certitude and conviction are common synonyms of certainty . While all three words mean "a state of being free from doubt," certainty and certitude are very close; certainty may stress the existence of objective proof. // claims that cannot be confirmed with scientific certainty

Q: When might 'certitude' be a better fit than 'certainty'?

The synonyms certitude and certainty are sometimes interchangeable, but certitude may emphasize a faith in something not needing or not capable of proof. // believes with certitude in an afterlife

Q: When is 'conviction' a more appropriate choice than 'certainty'?

In some situations, the words conviction and certainty are roughly equivalent. However, conviction applies especially to belief strongly held by an individual. // holds firm convictions on every issue

certainty

noun

ˈsər-tᵊn-tē

Definition of certainty next

as in assurance

a state of mind in which one is free from doubt I have full certainty that I'll pass the test

Synonyms & Similar Words

Relevance

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

as in likelihood

the quality or state of being impossible to avoid or evade the proverbial certainty of death and taxes

Synonyms & Similar Words

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

Synonym Chooser

How does the noun certainty differ from other similar words?

The words certitude and conviction are common synonyms of certainty. While all three words mean "a state of being free from doubt," certainty and certitude are very close; certainty may stress the existence of objective proof.

claims that cannot be confirmed with scientific certainty

When might certitude be a better fit than certainty?

The synonyms certitude and certainty are sometimes interchangeable, but certitude may emphasize a faith in something not needing or not capable of proof.

believes with certitude in an afterlife

When is conviction a more appropriate choice than certainty?

In some situations, the words conviction and certainty are roughly equivalent. However, conviction applies especially to belief strongly held by an individual.

holds firm convictions on every issue

Examples Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.

Recent Examples of certainty Third, the decision highlights he way in which Loper Bright promotes beneficial legal certainty and the rule of law. —

Alden Abbott, Forbes, 3 Jan. 2025 Turner is a better on-court fit around Tyrese Haliburton than Poeltl, and giving up picks for the extra bit of certainty is unlikely. —

Eric Koreen, The Athletic, 7 Jan. 2025 But the Giants just tied for the NFL’s worst record at 3-14, are 9-25 overall in the last two seasons and have less certainty than ever at quarterback. —

Peter Sblendorio, New York Daily News, 6 Jan. 2025 Their confidence in the national vote count declined from about 7 in 10 to about 6 in 10, although their certainty in the accuracy of state vote counts remained stable. —

Linley Sanders and Nicholas Riccardi, Los Angeles Times, 3 Jan. 2025 See all Example Sentences for certainty

Recent Examples of Synonyms for certainty

Noun

Branthwaite initially struggled in the Netherlands and Everton came close to recalling him before receiving assurances opportunities would come.

— The Athletic UK Staff, The Athletic, 24 Jan. 2025
Spencer’s estate and Brown are asking the court to deny the mall’s sale or delay the sale until there are assurances creditors will be able to recover their claims.

— Catherine Muccigrosso, Charlotte Observer, 22 Jan. 2025