certainly
- 01 A2 Elementary
used to emphasize that something is definitely true or will happen.
used to indicate that the speaker has no doubt about the truth of a statement. Often functions as a sentential adverb to modify the entire proposition.
Simple“The weather is certainly getting colder now that it is November.”
In context“The recent data certainly suggests that the economic recovery is more fragile than the initial reports had indicated.”
SynonymsAntonymspossiblydoubtfully - 02 A2 Elementary
used as a polite and strong way of saying 'yes' when someone asks you something.
used as an emphatic affirmative response to a request or question, functioning as a discourse marker of agreement.
Simple“"Could you help me with this bag?" "Certainly, I would be happy to."”
In context“When asked if the department would support the new initiative, the director replied, "Certainly, provided the budget remains within the agreed limits."”
SynonymsAntonyms
Usage certainly affect · certainly exist · certainly require
From Middle English certeynly; equivalent to certain + -ly.
Etymology adapted from Wiktionary, available under CC BY-SA 4.0.