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 Clear regulations in the U.S., once a pipedream, are now essentially a certainty. —

Brady Dale, Axios, 5 Dec. 2024 What the researchers can say with a high degree of certainty is that humans and canines were participating in this shift 12,000 years ago in Alaska. —

Paul Smaglik, Discover Magazine, 4 Dec. 2024 These clauses provide certainty to television networks that star performers will participate. —

Michael McCann, Sportico.com, 4 Dec. 2024 Teams wanting late-game certainty can look at Tanner Scott, Jeff Hoffman and Blake Treinen. —

Tim Britton, The Athletic, 7 Dec. 2024 See all Example Sentences for certainty

Recent Examples of Synonyms for certainty

Noun

And for some who are eager to conceive, the anecdotal assurance may be enough.

Fiorella Valdesolo, Vogue, 20 Dec. 2024
Patients are also more likely to choose a hospital with safety assurances.

Gord Magill, Newsweek, 20 Dec. 2024