Almost certainly Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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almost certainly

[ˈɔːlməʊst ˈsɜːtənli ]

Definitions

^{Context #1 | Adverb}

in probability

Almost certainly means that something is very likely to happen or be true, although it is not absolutely certain.

Synonyms

almost definitely, highly probable, very likely.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
almost certainly	Used when you are very confident about something happening but there is a tiny chance it won't. It will almost certainly rain tomorrow She will almost certainly get the job
very likely	Used in everyday situations to suggest something is expected to happen but not guaranteed. It is very likely that we will see him there It is very likely to rain tomorrow
highly probable	Used in more formal contexts or when discussing probabilities. Indicates a very high likelihood. It is highly probable that she will be promoted It is highly probable that the market will recover
almost definitely	Similar to 'almost certainly', implies strong confidence with a very small doubt. He will almost definitely come to the party We will almost definitely win the game

Examples of usage

He will almost certainly be late for the meeting.
She is almost certainly the best candidate for the job.

^{Context #2 | Phrase}

in certainty

Used to express a high degree of confidence or assurance in the likelihood of something happening.

Synonyms

beyond question, indisputably, without a doubt.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
almost certainly	Used when something is highly likely but not completely guaranteed. She will almost certainly pass the exam given how much she has studied
without a doubt	Used when there is no uncertainty or hesitation about something. She is without a doubt the best candidate for the job
beyond question	Used when something is completely certain or nobody can doubt it. His integrity is beyond question after saving the company from bankruptcy
indisputably	Used to emphasize that something cannot be debated or argued against. The mathematical proof is indisputably correct

Examples of usage

If you keep working hard, you will almost certainly achieve your goals.
The team has trained well and is almost certainly going to win the match.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Linguistic Nuance

The phrase combines two different levels of confidence: 'almost' implies a high likelihood, while 'certainly' suggests absolute assurance.
It's often used in speculative discussions to convey strong probability without guaranteeing outcomes, reflecting our complex decision-making world.

Philosophy

Philosophically, the idea of certainty is often debated; what does it mean to be certain, and can we ever truly know anything?
In epistemology, almost certainty can highlight the difference between belief and knowledge, as one can feel almost certain while lacking concrete evidence.

Psychology

In psychology, people often rely on hypotheses or predictions that are 'almost certain', which can be influenced by cognitive biases like confirmation bias.
Decision-making studies show that when we express nearly certain beliefs, we tend to act more confidently, even if that belief may not be fully justified.

Literature

Writers often use phrases like 'almost certainly' to introduce suspense or uncertainty, keeping readers engaged and guessing.
In poetry, such phrases can evoke emotion and complexity, allowing interpretations that go beyond mere certainty.

Everyday Usage

In daily conversations, people use this phrase to express their views while recognizing the limits of their knowledge or belief.
Politicians and speakers frequently use 'almost certainly' to convey strong opinions while allowing room for doubt, making their statements more palatable.

Origin of 'almost certainly'

The phrase 'almost certainly' originated in the late 18th century, combining the adverb 'almost' meaning 'very nearly' with the adverb 'certainly' meaning 'without doubt'. It has since become a common expression in modern English.