Certainly Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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certainly
[ˈsərt(ə)n(ə)lē ]
Definition
in agreement
used to emphasize agreement or certainty when responding to a request or statement
Synonyms
absolutely, definitely, indeed.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| certainly |
Used to express a strong affirmation or consent, often in response to a request or question.
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| definitely |
Used to show firm confirmation or certainty about a statement or future event.
|
| indeed |
Used to give emphasis to a statement, often expressing surprise, emphasis, or agreement.
|
| absolutely |
Used to emphasize total agreement or confirmation, often with an emotional or emphatic touch.
|
Examples of usage
- 'Can you help me with this?' 'Certainly!'
- 'Would you like some more tea?' 'Certainly, thank you.'
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Usage in Language
- 'Certainly' is often used to affirm something positively in conversations.
- It can add formality to a sentence, making it more polite and respectful.
- In literature, characters might use 'certainly' to express an unwavering commitment to their beliefs or actions.
Cultural Significance
- In many cultures, expressing certainty can convey confidence and assertiveness in discussions.
- Politicians frequently use 'certainly' in speeches to reinforce their promises and positions.
- In literature, the word helps evoke strong emotions by assuring the reader of a character’s beliefs and truths.
Psychology
- Using assertive language like 'certainly' can enhance a speaker's perceived credibility.
- Cognitive biases may lead individuals to feel more certain about their information even if it's incorrect.
- Positive affirmations with words like 'certainly' can boost self-confidence and reduce anxiety.
Pop Culture
- Catchphrases in movies often include 'certainly' to add dramatic emphasis, enhancing memorable quotes.
- Certain celebrities are known for their certain phrases, making 'certainly' a part of their brand language.
- In comedy, misusing the word adds humor, as characters may defiantly assert certainty in absurd situations.
Origin of 'certainly'
Main points about word origin
- The word comes from the Old French 'certain', which means sure or confident.
- It traces back to the Latin 'certus', meaning fixed, sure, or determined.
- The suffix '-ly' turns an adjective into an adverb, showing it’s an action word describing how something is done.
The word 'certainly' originated in the late 14th century from the Middle English word 'certeinly', which in turn came from the Old French word 'certainement'. Its usage has evolved over time to convey a strong sense of agreement or assurance in response to a question or statement.
See also: certain, certainty, uncertain, uncertainly, uncertainty.