# certainly

/ˈsɝtənɫi/ (US) · /sˈɜːtənli/ (UK)

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/certainly
Updated: 2026-06-19

## Senses

### 1. without doubt

adverb · CEFR A2

used to emphasize that something is definitely true or will happen.

For teachers: 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.

- The weather is certainly getting colder now that it is November.
- The recent data certainly suggests that the economic recovery is more fragile than the initial reports had indicated.

### 2. yes, of course

adverb · CEFR A2

used as a polite and strong way of saying 'yes' when someone asks you something.

For teachers: used as an emphatic affirmative response to a request or question, functioning as a discourse marker of agreement.

- "Could you help me with this bag?" "Certainly, I would be happy to."
- When asked if the department would support the new initiative, the director replied, "Certainly, provided the budget remains within the agreed limits."

## Examples

- I will certainly help you with your homework.
- The new policy will certainly improve the safety of the workers, though it might take some time to implement.
- While the initial costs are high, the long-term benefits of renewable energy will certainly outweigh the investment as technology continues to advance.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.